Kotoko Figure of 'Medicine' Horse

Tiny, and bridled. A horse that has somewhere to be.

The Kotoko live near Lake Chad and cast small brass figures in the lost-wax method, many worn or kept for protection. This horse and rider is a ‘medicine’ figure from the 20th century. The horse has a strongly arched neck, a bridled head and a band with a twisted rope pattern across the chest. The slender rider sits tall in a pointed headdress.

The brass is golden, with darker patina in the recesses. Only two inches high.

Small, and finely balanced. The rider seems to know it.