Dogon Kneeling Male Figure

He kneels, arms crossed over his chest, and has the beard to prove he means it.

Dogon artists of Mali, West Africa, made this kneeling male figure in bronze in the 20th century. Kneeling and crossed arms are often read as gestures of respect. The long, narrow body carries a ropelike belt at the waist, and the pointed beard falls straight over the folded arms. The face is calm and elongated beneath a smooth cap of hair. The dark metal has a glossy, hand-rubbed brown surface with green-black recesses.

About 7 inches tall. Quiet company for a bookshelf, and a good listener.