Dogon Bronze Twisted Figure

Rough, worn and thin. Handled, clearly, by many hands.

Dogon people of Mali, West Africa, made this twisted figure in bronze in the early 20th century. Small, slender figures in the region are commonly associated with personal and household use, and twisting forms are often tied to serpent imagery. A narrow standing form has a small, lifted head and arms pressed against the sides. The bronze is textured and pitted, with green and gold highlights where the metal has been rubbed. The legs are thin and slightly bowed.

About 3.8 inches tall. Small enough for a pocket, strong enough for a pedestal.