Gurunsi Iron Feline Figure

Long-bodied animal wearing a dotted coat and a curl of tail at one end.

This iron feline figure is Gurunsi, and dates to the 20th century. It is burkina faso, ghana or ivory coast, west africa. Forged iron holds an important place in many West African societies, where blacksmiths are often regarded as skilled specialists whose work extends to tools, weapons and figures. Slender, elongated cast figure facing right, with a finely textured surface of small scale-like cuts. Its short legs have splayed feet. The head is pointed with two small upright ears, and the tail curls over. It is 6 inches wide, 1 deep and 2 high.

Stretched like a loaf, and moving with purpose.