Kotoko Equestrian Figure, with Carrying Strap

Sewn in leather, so only the tips of the legs show.

The Kotoko of Chad made many small horse-and-rider figures, and wrapping them in leather allowed them to be worn or carried close as personal charms. This one, cast in bronze in the 20th century, has been stitched tightly into a fitted casing. Bronze shows only at the four short legs and at the ear and muzzle points, which gleam where they have been rubbed bright. A twisted cord and a leather loop rise from the top.

The dark hide is creased, the thread pale, the whole softly worn. It has a carrying strap. Presumably it was carried.