Dogon Iron Equestrian Figure

The horse and rider rank among the most important subjects in Dogon art, tied to leadership and to the mythic ancestors.

This small iron figure from Mali, 20th century, sits a rider astride a stiff-legged mount. He holds a tall, ribbed cylindrical form in his arms. His head is crested and his features cleanly defined. The horse has a long arching neck ending in a downturned head, a ring at the chest for the bridle, round bosses at the shoulders and hips. Incised lines decorate the legs.

Three and a half inches tall, dark and worn, with green traces.

Gallop is not required. Arrival is assumed.