Maternity statue - Dogon - Mali

This statuette was exhibited in a major exhibition dedicated to tribal arts in France, in 2013-2014. A document including the history of this figurine will be included. The stand is included. Almost everywhere across Sub-Saharan Africa, one of the primordial roles of the woman is to ensure a numerous offspring, so that the lineage can be renewed. Since the Dogon society is patrilineal, specific rites must be performed for the newborn, to be integrated into his group. Thus, at the thirty-fifth day of birth, the child is presented to his mother in the “house of the family’s mother” of her husband, so that the person in charge can proceed to the imposing of the child’s name during the ceremony of head shaving. The piece created here, perfectly illustrates the theme of maternity, spread in the so-called Dogon arts. The child lays on the maternal thighs. Despite the little size of the figure, the face is obviously that of an adult. Kneeling, this one exhibits a necklace which largely occupies the superior part located on top of the chest, this type of ornament worn around the neck is certainly composed of many pouches with very powerful amulets, containing verses of the Koran, and acquired from the neighbouring Muslim peoples, it denotes a high social rank. The long and flat breasts are like those of a woman who has fed many children. The arms and the wrists are surrounded with bracelets composed of ornaments and also prophylactic objects. There is a small missing piece at the level of the chameleon placed on the head, revealing an undeniably ancient wood, have a look at the close-up picture. This Dogon figurine remains a major artwork which cannot be overlooked. The stand is crafted by a highly specialised workshop and will be delivered with the piece. Shipment within 24 working hours. Track & trace included. With acknowledgement of receipt. Tags: mask, figurine, sculpture, figure, statuette, wood, art, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, USA, Dogon, contemporary, first, primitive, tribal, African, antiquity, artwork, gallery, Picasso, Giacometti, art gallery, African art, cubism.