Dogon Bronze Female Charm, Based

She curls like a question mark, and the stand is the only thing keeping her upright.

Dogon casters of Mali, West Africa, made this female charm in bronze in the 19th century. Small bronze figures of women are commonly linked with fertility, protection and ancestors. The figure is bent in an arc with a pronounced head, raised arms and a thin torso. The metal has a black, rough surface, with traces of green in the recesses. A tall black stand supports the piece from behind, and it sits on a square foot.

About 2 inches tall. A tiny piece with a long memory.