Dogon Copper Figure, Mali

A broad smile, one knee drawn up, one arm reaching down to touch the ground. He seems to know a joke.

This small seated figure of copper is Dogon, from Mali, 20th century. Miniature metal figures were part of personal and household devotion, kept on altars or carried as charms. A very long neck supports a rounded head with large ears and a pointed nose. A pendant hangs at the chest, and crosshatched incisions cover the torso. The patina is deep brown, rubbed to a coppery shine on the nose and brow.

Four inches high. Hands have clearly agreed with him.