Kotoko Bronze Equestrian Figure

Long-faced horse is tugged along by a rider who barely clings on

This equestrian figure is Kotoko, from Chad, Central Africa, and dates to the 20th century. It is bronze. Horses have long been linked with status and leadership in the Sahel, where mounted riders are often associated with chiefs, warriors and courts. Mixed golden and blue-green surface with scattered rough spots. A tiny seated figure leans over the horse's back, hands extended toward a thin rein. The horse has a long, narrow head and slim, bowed legs. It is 2.8 inches wide, 0.7 deep and 2 high.

Affectionately lopsided, and it never once asked for correction.