Dogon Iron Equestrian Figure

The rider leans back on a horse set on a rectangular frame.

This iron equestrian figure is Dogon, from Mali, West Africa, and dates to the 20th century. Dogon blacksmiths hold a respected role in their communities, and iron figures are generally made by forging and hammering rather than casting. Smooth, dark cast figure with a rider seated on a horizontal horse body, a leg dangling at its side. The long legs curve outward to a flat rectangular base. Both head and tail extend as thin bars. It is 3 inches wide, 1 deep and 3.5 high.

Even its base is minimalist, and rather smug.