Lobi Figure Depicting Quadruped

Small enough to hold in a closed hand. The Lobi of Burkina Faso made miniature animal and human figures to be worn or kept as protective charms, often at the suggestion of a diviner.

This cast bronze quadruped dates to the early 20th century. It stands on four short legs with broad, flattened feet. The long straight back carries a small raised knob at its center. The head drops forward to a blunt muzzle with paired ears or horns, and the tail sweeps down behind. The brown surface has a soft sheen where hands have rubbed the high points, and a rougher casting texture in the recesses.

Not much bigger than a thumb. Plenty of presence.