Dogon Seated Figure with 2 Heads

Two heads. One body. Nobody explained, and nobody had to.

The Dogon of Mali made small figures for personal and protective use, and doubled or paired forms appear in their work. This one was cast in bronze in the early 20th century. Just over three inches tall, it seats two heads side by side on separate necks, each with round eyes and a small mouth. Below, a single body: small breasts, arms banded with bracelets at upper arm and wrist, knees drawn up.

The patina is dark brown with faint traces of green. Intimate in scale. Plainly a pair, whatever the arithmetic says.