Dogon Figure Depicting Twins

Two heads, one pair of legs, and a hole where the middle should be.

Dogon smiths of Mali, West Africa, forged this twin figure in iron in the early 20th century. Twins hold a special place in many West African beliefs and are commonly honored with paired images. Two long-necked heads angle away from each other above one shared body, each with hollow, round eyes, and a round opening is cut through the torso. Flat feet stand wide below, with incised lines at the ankles. The surface is dark gray with brown wear.

About three and a half inches tall. A conversation in profile.