Dogon Bronze Equestrian Figure

Rifle-thin riders have been crossing this plain for centuries.

A Dogon caster in Mali, West Africa, made this equestrian figure in bronze in the mid 20th century. Mounted figures in Dogon art are often linked to chiefs or hunters. The rider here wears a long beaked head and sits with one arm bent forward, gripping a pole that angles down along the horse’s neck. The horse has tall, narrow legs, a raised head and a banded harness. A mix of green and dark brown patina covers the surface.

About four inches tall and as wide. Gallop-ready, if only on the bookshelf.