Dogon Pendant Depicting a Seated Figure Touching Face, Based

Small enough to rest in the palm. A figure sits with knees drawn up and one hand to its face. Thinking, perhaps. Or merely resting.

Dogon smiths in Mali cast miniatures by the lost-wax method, and pieces like this pendant were worn as personal adornment. This one, 20th century, stands about two inches tall in bronze. The raised hand meets a rounded head with projecting ears or coiffure. Incised lines mark the features. A mottled green patina covers the metal, and a black base lifts it to eye level.

Wear it, or watch it. Either way it keeps its own counsel.