Dogon Standing Female Figure

Five inches tall, and she has never once slouched.

Dogon artisans of Mali cast this small bronze of a standing woman in the 20th century, using the lost-wax method by which Dogon smiths made miniature figures to be kept or worn as personal objects. She is long and upright, with a small head, a ringed neck, pointed breasts and arms hanging straight at her sides. The rounded navel stands out from the belly, worn to a bright golden spot, and the feet rest broad and flat. The patina is dark brown with golden highlights on the high points.

Poised. Assured. Entirely unhurried.