Dogon Figure Depicting a Pair of Horses

Two horses on one base, the smaller pressed close to the larger’s flank. A very Dogon way to show company.

Cast by Dogon smiths in Mali in the early 20th century, in bronze, at four inches. The horse was long associated with status and with the founding ancestors. The pair share an oval base edged with a twisted-rope border. The larger carries a small cup on its back and lifts a long, striated head. The smaller has a mane picked out in fine incised lines. Whitish deposits settle on dark bronze, with patches of green.

Two horses, one base, no quarrel.