Figure
Date19th century or earlier
Mediumwood
DimensionsOverall: 10 7/8 x 2 1/8 x 2 1/4 in. (27.6 x 5.4 x 5.7 cm)
ClassificationsVisual Works
Credit LineGift of Alan Potamkin
Object number2007.48.17
DescriptionThe Dogon have occupied the same isolated cliff region of Mali since at least the 12th century when they migrated to the Bandigara Escarpment to avoid the expanding Islamic state that encompassed the Niger River region and its cities. The Dogon say they found the area already inhabited by people they called Tellem and with whom they apparently intermarried. Slender, pole-like figures are believed to reflect the Tellem style, absorbed by the Dogon.
