Manufacturing Technique

This piece was hand carved from a single block of wood using a small adze. Axes and knives are also commonly used in Dogon carving.

Materials

This piece is made entirely of wood. Most Dogon votive figures are carved from soft wood, although some have been found that are made of forged iron, terra cotta or stone. These are very rare, however.

Designs/Symbolism

Votive figures are very symbolic. Though they are made to commemorate specific people, they are carved in basic male or female forms. Specific attributes generally accompany Dogon sculpture. Dogon votive figures are mostly created in a frontal pose with bilateral symmetry. Body parts are generally straight and columnar, and the head is carved in an oval shape. One of the key indicators of Sudanic sculpture is the exaggeration of length. Dogon carvings are very elongated and slender to symbolize the human body at its greatest extension. Special emphasis is generally placed upon the center of the form by adding both vertical and horizontal lines.

Size

42.5cm with base

Object on loan from Dr. David Lancy .. Artifact research by Robert France