Inhabiting the barren cliffsides of the Bandiagara
Escarpment, near the great bend in the Niger
River, the Dogon people led lives of physical
austerity and spiritual wealth. They often
performed religious ceremonies in which the arts
played a crucial role. Ceremonies known as
"rites of passage" mark the major life cycles, such
as initiation or celebrations. Used in such rituals,
the Dogon art form (including most bronzes) is
always laden with rich symbolism, expressing
their beliefs.
This beautiful bronze sculpture depicts a female
riding a horse while holding a staff. Her facial
features, including ears, are delicately indicated,
and her hair is stylized in a unique fashion.
Sculpted in a stylized manner, the figure
interestingly has a frontal view while the horse is
depicted in a side view. Such position reminds
the viewers of the ancient Egyptian pictorial
images. The figure must have been a very
important person in her tribe, for a horse in
Dogon society signified wealth, power, and
chieftainship. Moreover, equestrian images
expressed status and prestige. Perhaps she was
a high priestess who performed rituals, or the
head of a wealthy family. As we contemplate the
beautiful sculpture, we wonder about the
significance of the individual. Although we may
not be sure of her identity, her power and
prestige will last for ages to come in an image
that we treasure.
- (FZ.339)
|
