Kotoko Bronze Equestrian Figure

A horse and rider gone entirely under leather, with only a few brass tips peeking out.

This equestrian figure is Kotoko, from Chad, Central Africa, and dates to the 20th century. It is cast bronze and leather. The Kotoko, who live along the Logone and Chari rivers, are known for small cast-metal horsemen, often wrapped in leather and carried as charms, a practice generally linked to protection. A dark hide casing covers nearly the whole form, stitched around the edges and worn to brown in patches. Brass shows at the rider's head, the horse's muzzle and the hooves. It is 2.75 inches wide and 2.75 high.

Dressed for travel and keeping its details to itself.