Dogon Figure Depicting Royal Tableau

A whole court on a platform, all four of them thinking.

Dogon founders of Mali, West Africa, cast this figural scene in bronze in the 20th century. Raised platforms and seated groups in Dogon art are often associated with council, leadership and ritual gatherings. Four small figures sit and crouch on a slatted platform, some with a hand raised to the chin or face, and a tiny animal crouches among them. The platform stands on four tall posts, braced by crossbars lashed at the corners.

About 3.5 inches tall. A council, held in one hand.