Dogon Iron Kneeling Figure

Kneeling figure with a ring at its side and a very architectural posture.

This kneeling iron figure is Dogon, from Mali, West Africa, and dates to the early 20th century. Dogon blacksmiths of Mali have long held a special social standing, and iron figures are generally associated with their forge work and with protective or altar settings. Angular kneeling figure with a long, straight torso carrying incised parallel lines down one arm. A small hoop hangs near the shoulder and a stacked headdress rises from the head. The surface is smooth dark brown with a soft sheen. It is 1.5 inches wide, 2 deep and 5.25 high.

Built from straight lines and one very confident curve.