Kotoko Bronze Equestrian Figure

Turn it over and the horse has gone to ground.

Kotoko people of Chad, Central Africa, made this equestrian figure in the 20th century from bronze with leather. Horsemen are a recurring subject in Kotoko metalwork, linked in general terms with status and the prestige of riders. In this view the piece presents a deep, reddish-brown leathery surface, puckered and glossy, with a dark relief that hints at a figure. Two small pale feet stand out below, and a pair of bright metal nubs mark the upper edge. The shape is a compact, rounded shield.

About four inches square. Small, dense, and as shy as a pebble from a good river.