Kotoko Bronze Standing Figure

Bulging eyes and a pointed head sit on a body that splits into a Y.

This standing bronze figure is Kotoko, from Chad, Central Africa, and dates to the 20th century. Bronze is an alloy of copper and tin, and in Central Africa it has been used for figures, bracelets and other small castings. Captured here is a narrow figure whose head tapers to a point, with wide round eyes and a small mouth. The body is a thin shaft that divides into two long legs, with a row of tiny notches along one side. The finish is polished gold. It is 1 inches wide, 1 deep and 4 high.

Startled by life and still standing.