Dogon Bronze Figural Group

A man plays an instrument, a woman balances a bundle, a child follows, a dog leads. A small day, in bronze.

Lost-wax casting has a long history among the Dogon of Mali, and small groups like this capture daily life with a light, narrative touch. This one dates to the 20th century and stands just under eight inches on a shared oval base. The man wears a pointed crested headdress and plays a stringed instrument. The dog has a tightly curled tail. The figures are slender and elongated.

The whole surface is a soft mottled verdigris green. Nothing happens. It is wonderful anyway.