Dogon Figure on Bended Knee

Down on one knee, a hand resting on it, with the patience of someone who has been there awhile.

This figure on bended knee is Dogon, from Mali, West Africa, and dates to the 20th century, in forged metal. Small Dogon metal figures are generally associated with shrines and family altars, and the kneeling posture is widely read in West African sculpture as one of respect. The figure has a high crested head, wide eyes and a pointed beard. One leg is folded under, the other raised, with a long arm reaching down to the knee. The chest is textured and the limbs ringed with bands. Crusty brown patina covers the metal. It is 1.5 inches wide and 4.75 high.

Small, steady, and in no hurry to stand.