Lot 81A
West Africa, Central Mali, Dogon peoples, ca. early mid-20th century CE. An arresting wooden sculpture of a nude male shown seated atop a stool and holding an object, perhaps a flute, gourd vessel, or fish, between his legs. His narrow-spaced eyes, arrow-shaped nose, notched coiffure, pointed chin-beard, and square shoulders are all hallmark characteristics of Dogon sculpture. Supported by 3 nude, female figures with arms raised, the caryatid stool suggests that the seated male represents a priest in mid-trance during a ceremonial performance. The elongated limbs and gentle curves of the caryatids convey a sense of spring-like vitality, as if emphasizing the effort required to bear the substantial figure above. With a subtle backward lean, the musician-priest exudes a calm authority that draws the viewer's focus. Size: 8.2" L x 8.8" W x 35.1" H (20.8 cm x 22.4 cm x 89.2 cm)
While the arms and legs are sculpted with lifelike naturalism, the upper torso, neck, and head take on a more angular and geometric quality. The delicate expression on the man's face evokes a sense of spiritual elevation. Together, the design of the stool, the bowed posture of the caryatid figures, and the serene demeanor of the elongated figure form a strikingly dynamic composition, showcasing the extraordinary craftsmanship of its unnamed creator.
The figure atop the stool represents either a hogon - a priest dedicated to Lebe, the first of the eight original Dogon ancestors in oral tradition and the first to die - or a binu, a priest-like figure believed to have the ability to communicate with binu ancestor spirits, who are said to have existed before the advent of death among humans. In Dogon cosmogony, ancestor worship is of great significance, and both hogon and binu figures were accorded high social status within their communities. The priest depicted on the stool serves as a bridge between the spiritual and mortal worlds. To connect with ancestor spirits, the priest would enter a trance-like state while playing an instrument. This sculpture captures that transcendent moment in the ritual, a scene that would typically be followed by chanting and dancing.
This sculpture, marked by its rarity and exquisite craftsmanship, highlights the artistic expertise of the Dogon people and their deep connection to cosmology and mythology. The Dogon inhabit the rugged, arid terrain of the Western Sahel along the Bandiagara Escarpment, a breathtaking expanse of sandstone cliffs that stretches across central Mali, between the Niger River and the Burkina Faso border. With sections towering over 1,500 feet, the Bandiagara is one of sub-Saharan Africa's most striking geological features, offering natural protection from external threats and providing shelters that safeguarded many of the culture's artistic creations. Despite the region's challenging conditions, the Dogon adapted to their environment, building entire villages into the steep cliff faces of the escarpment and thriving in this harsh yet awe-inspiring landscape.
Dogon sculpture primarily focuses on the spiritual forces associated with fertility, both of the land and its people. These spirits include a family's ancestral figures, both historical and mythical, as well as the souls of women who passed away during childbirth and water deities. Although the specific purposes and meanings of individual sculptures are often unclear, researchers widely agree that these works were crafted for use in shrines.
This piece was purportedly displayed and exhibited at a museum, according to the consignor.
Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
SHIPPING EXCEPTIONS: Due to customs clearance issues, we are unable to ship to Germany, Switzerland and Australia. If you live in Germany, Switzerland or Australia, you will need to provide an alternate shipping destination, or we will not be able to complete your purchase. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.)
PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.
#190174
- Condition: Some possible areas of old repairs or restoration, but form is still clear. Age-expected nicks, abrasions, and fissures to wood as shown. Otherwise, nice remaining detail and rich patina throughout.
Accepted Forms of Payment:
American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa
Shipping
Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense
Artemis Fine Arts
You agree to pay a buyer's premium of up to 27.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.
View full terms and conditions
| From: | To: | Increments: |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $299 | $25 |
| $300 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $1,999 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $19,999 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $49,999 | $2,500 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $20,000 |