Dogon Ancestor Figures

Dogon figures, Mali, These figures are associated with the ancestor cult. Once carved, they are placed on altars and left there to age. These skillfully carved figures have elongated torsos and arms, and have slightly bent knees. The maternal figure's face is sculpted with triangular forms for the eyes and coiffure. Her expression is almost mounrful, which is echoed in the face of the child. The figure has been coloured with a dark brown pigment that has become deeply encrusted. Figure height 47 cm, width 10 cm, depth 10.5 cm, on stand height 51 cm. Provenance: Lim-Strutt collection, Aotearoa