Kotoko Bronze Equestrian Figure

Two riders, one rope, and a reasonable amount of swagger.

Kotoko metalworkers of Chad, Central Africa, made this bronze equestrian figure in the 19th or 20th century. Horse figures like this are often connected with chieftaincy and the display of status. A rider with a ridged cap sits at the front, the second figure behind him drawn out into a long cone. A twisted cord runs from the horse’s hooked head along its neck. Fine bands wrap the saddle area, and the legs end in blunt tips. The patina is green-black and softly mottled.

About five inches tall. Fits in one hand, and holds its own on a shelf.