Dogon Kneeling Female Figure

Kneeling, one hand to her chest, in rough dark iron.

Dogon smiths of Mali, West Africa, forged this kneeling female figure in iron in the 20th century. Kneeling women appear in Dogon art in gestures of respect and supplication. Here the figure kneels upright with one hand held to the chest and the other down at her side. The face is broad, with a pronounced brow, and a patterned band marks the hips. The surface is dark and pocked, brown shading to olive, with a soft, hand-worn feel.

About 3.3 inches tall. Three inches of reverence.