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HOME :
African & Tribal Art :
Masterpieces of African Art : Dogon Bronze Figure of a Captive
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Dogon Bronze Figure of a Captive - PF.4881
Origin: Southeastern Mali/Burkina Faso
Circa: 1500
AD
to 1800
AD
Dimensions:
8" (20.3cm) high
Collection: African
Style: Dogon
Medium: Bronze
£8,000.00
Location: UAE
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| Description |
For centuries miniature bronze sculptures have
been made by blacksmiths for use by individuals
as protective charms and commemorative
devices. Though they take different forms
influenced by various peoples who journeyed
through the Dogon region, at some point a
distinctive style emerged, beautifully expressed
in this extraordinary figure. Squared shoulders,
tapered extremities and stylized facial features
are typical of Dogon sculpture in wood or
bronze. The angularity the face, with its sharp
chin balanced by the conical head ornament and
trapezoidal ears, creates a surreal quality
without sacrificing the very real human character.
Bulging eyes and puckered mouth express fear of
the captive, whose hands and feet are bound
with twine. The leanness of his torso and limbs is
a highly effective artistic style, and also
expressive of a prisoner's physical condition.
Perhaps a warrior once wore this figure as a
symbol of his prowess in battle. Today, this it
appears absolutely modern; estraordinarily
expressive, powerful and larger than life.
- (PF.4881)
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