Kotoko Bronze Equestrian Figure

Tilted to one side, the riders hold on and the horse hums along

This equestrian figure is Kotoko, from Chad, Central Africa, and dates to the 20th century. It is bronze. The Kotoko peoples of the Lake Chad basin are known for small cast metal figures, and horse and rider subjects are among the forms associated with the region. Two figures with finely grooved headdresses lean into one another on a horse whose neck sweeps into a tight spiral. A twisted rein runs under the chin. Square-set body, banded shoulders, and lighter golden wear on the legs. It is 2.75 inches wide, 0.6 deep and 2.8 high.

Strong leaning energy, impeccable commitment to the bit.