Dogon Wood Bird Fetish

Description

Dogon wood fetish of a bird, probably an ostrich or dyabu.
The hogon rides this large bird during initiation rituals and other important ceremonies.
Rich patina, some age cracks.
Mid 20th century – Collected in Mali.

Height: 23,5 cm (9 1/4″)
Weight: 250 grams (9 oz)

Reference:  Art of the Dogon -The Metropolitan Museum of Art, (1988), p. 86-87
“Ostrich skins, with feathers intact, are spread out on the mud-brick platform in front of the hogon’s house, creating a seat appropriate for a person of his importance” (Griaule, 1938:7, n. 3; Dieterlen, 1982: 72-17)