Malian Bronze Equestrian Figure

The rider leans so far forward that he has become part of the horse.

This equestrian figure is Djenne, from Mali, West Africa, and dates to the 20th century. It is bronze. Cast horsemen from Mali are generally read as symbols of status and warfare. Its frame is built from thin rods, with a long back, two splayed front legs and a drawn-out rear leg. The horse's head extends forward on a thin neck, its muzzle level with the rider's outstretched arm. The rider is tall and narrow, with a small beaked head. Mottled brown and green patina covers the surface. It is 4.5 inches wide, 1.25 deep and 5.25 high.

The horse has the legs and the rider has the nerve.