Dogon Bronze Seated Monkey

A monkey with knees drawn up and arms held straight. Very correct posture.

Animals appear often among the miniature Dogon castings of Mali, alongside human figures and riders. This bronze monkey, from the 20th century, stands three and a half inches tall on a long, columnar body. The round face has a projecting muzzle and two rounded ears.

A collar or necklace hangs at the throat above small raised knobs on the chest. Green and gray-green patina covers most of the surface, with warm bronze showing through on the high points.

Dignified, for a monkey.