Dogon Forged Iron Equestrian Figure

The rider sits cross-legged on a horse made of four posts and a plank.

This equestrian figure is Dogon, from Mali, West Africa, and dates to the early 20th century. It is forged iron. Horsemen are a classic subject in Dogon metalwork, generally connected to rank and leadership. The figure has a pointed muzzle and a tall crest, and holds long reins that run to the horse's head. The horse's body is a simple rod frame on thick legs with round feet, its tail curling behind. The surface mixes dark iron with patches of pale green. It is 3.75 inches wide, 2.5 deep and 5 high.

An efficient design, with the parts kept to a minimum.