Dogon Bronze Kneeling Figure

Bearded figure with crossed bands over the chest and a blue-green dusting of age.

This kneeling figure is Dogon, from Mali, West Africa, and dates to the 20th century. It is bronze. Miniature kneeling figures appear in Dogon metalwork and wood sculpture, and the pose is often read as a gesture of respect or prayer. At first glance, a small standing figure with a broad, flat face and a rounded beard. Two diagonal bands cross the chest. The arms hang straight and the legs are short and bent. The surface is dark with green and reddish traces. It is 0.5 inches wide, 1 deep and 2.5 high.

Crossed bands and a firm look, ready for business.