Dogon Two Standing Figures with Arms Raised

Four arms up, two bodies, one base: a tiny victory scene.

Dogon bronze casters of Mali, West Africa, made this pair of standing figures with arms raised in the early 20th century. Raised arms are a frequent motif in Dogon art and are often interpreted as a prayer or appeal, for example for rain. The two figures stand side by side, joined at the hips. Each lifts both arms straight overhead, and a third narrow form rises between them. Incised lines mark the bodies. The bronze is dark and mottled. They stand on a black disc.

About five and a half inches tall. A small crowd that never needs to be fed.