Dogon Seated Female Figure

Arms folded, knees tucked, hair knotted like a tiny crown.

Dogon smiths of Mali, West Africa, forged this seated female figure in iron in the 20th century. Ironwork among the Dogon is traditionally the blacksmith’s domain and is often associated with ritual. She sits with her legs bent to one side and feet turned out, one arm folded across the chest. Fine incised lines mark the torso and legs. The face is long and oval with wide eyes, and the hair rises in a small round knot at the crown.

About 5.5 inches tall. Composed, patient, and not leaving.