Sculpture, so-called Dogon figure, Mali mid-20th century

Carved from a single piece of wood, height approx. 57.5 cm
Dogon figures from Mali are primarily known for their rich symbolism and connection to the spiritual world. These wooden sculptures, often depicting ancestors, spirits, or figures with raised arms, serve as intermediaries between the living and the divine. They are crafted by blacksmiths and imbued with life force (nyama) through rituals and offerings, functioning as altars for prayers and communication with higher powers.
The Dogon people are an ethnic group from Mali's central plateau region, extending into Burkina Faso. They arrived in the area around the 14th century CE. The majority reside in the rocky hills, mountains, and plateaus of the Bandiagara escarpment. The Dogon people are shrouded in mystery due to their knowledge of astronomy, which is thousands of years older than modern science.

Wear due to age and use. Marks. Cracks due to dryness of the material.