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This dynamic equestrian figure is a miniature
masterpiece from one of several tribal groups in
the Mali area, although it also bears a certain
resemblance to bronze/brass figures from the
Niger River Delta. The issue is the representation
of the horse. It is unusually dynamic, with a
curved neck and naturalistically rendered
proportions. Djenne horses are more angular,
Bambara pieces more stylised and Dogon
versions more naturalistic. The rider, equally, has
no strong affinity with any known group, as
Dogon variants have long faces with inverted T-
bar noses and other groups have distinct if
generalised facial features.
The general look and patination of the piece is
excellent. Whatever its origin, it was certain to
have been a prestigious object, as horses (and
equestrian figures) and metalwork are both
expensive and elite within African cultures. Given
its size, it is likely to have been a personal piece,
possibly commemorating an ancestor or
expressing one’s status. This is a superb piece of
African art.
- (SP.102 (LSO))
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