Dogon ancestor figure
Dogon statuary: African art in Mali
This imposing wooden statue of the Dogon people represents a hermaphrodite. The figure has a dome shaped head with projecting headdress with small bells to the end. The face reveals a serene expression through the simple, and yet elegant features. To the jawline is a crest shaped beard. The figure is kneeling and the body has prominent breasts and pregnant stomach, the hands resting on the thighs. Mounted on a custom made stand.
The practice of the Dogon to create statues that have both male and female attributes, is to define the best qualities of both sexes within one form. The Dogon create statues for the sole purpose of contacting the higher powers who can either be spirits or ancestors. These statues are made exclusively by blacksmiths, a profession that has traditionally been seen by many communities across the world as holding special powers.
This exceptional piece comes from a private collection in Bruxelles.
01723
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Mid XXth century
- Size
- 49 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood, sacrificial materials
- Country
- Origin
- Tribal art collection Belgium
- Stand
- Included
- Condition
- Excellent
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Dogon statuary: African art in Mali
This imposing wooden statue of the Dogon people represents a hermaphrodite. The figure has a dome shaped head with projecting headdress with small bells to the end. The face reveals a serene expression through the simple, and yet elegant features. To the jawline is a crest shaped beard. The figure is kneeling and the body has prominent breasts and pregnant stomach, the hands resting on the thighs. Mounted on a custom made stand.
The practice of the Dogon to create statues that have both male and female attributes, is to define the best qualities of both sexes within one form. The Dogon create statues for the sole purpose of contacting the higher powers who can either be spirits or ancestors. These statues are made exclusively by blacksmiths, a profession that has traditionally been seen by many communities across the world as holding special powers.
This exceptional piece comes from a private collection in Bruxelles.