Dogon Bronze Equestrian Ring, Based

A ring for the finger, a horse for the horizon.

Among the Dogon of Mali the horse is a symbol of prestige, and cast rings bearing equestrian figures were worn as ornaments of status. This bronze one dates to the 19th century. The rider wears a tall, ribbed crest and sits upright. The horse has a ridged mane, a long tail and a modeled head. Both stand on a flat oval platform above a twisted ring shank. Four inches tall overall, with a dark patina and pale encrustation lingering in the recesses, bringing out the casting detail. A square black mount completes it.

Wear one, and you ride into the room.