Dogon Bronze Seated Figure

Squat, square and staring. This one is not in the mood for small talk.

Dogon metalworkers of Mali, West Africa, made this seated figure in bronze in the 20th century. Cast figures of this kind are commonly linked to ancestral and household ritual, though meanings vary. The figure sits on a flat plate with knees drawn up to the chest and arms hanging at the sides. The face has round, bulging eyes and a band at the throat. The metal is dark and heavy-looking, crusted with greenish deposits and rough in places.

About three inches tall. Dense for its size, like a paperweight with opinions.