Dogon Ladle with Figurative Handle, Based

An iron ladle with a lady for a handle.

Dogon smiths of Mali, West Africa, forged this ladle with a figurative handle in iron in the 20th century. Ladles with figures are commonly associated with ritual or prestige use rather than daily cooking. The deep round bowl is plain, hammered and pitted. The handle rises from it in a narrow column, topped by a standing figure with a pointed head, a long torso and bent legs. Speckles of reddish rust cover the dark surface. A small black stand carries it.

About twelve inches tall. Make soup in it if you dare. Don’t.