Dogon Gate of Mali

Pretty little carved door of a Dogon granary from Mali. The Dogons carefully sculpt the doors or shutters of their grain granaries. The sculptures created are true works of art linked to their rich cosmogony. With a utilitarian vocation, these doors are also and above all an ancestral testimony to the beliefs and traditions held by this extraordinary people. The decor depends on the function of the building, but also on the symbolism of the figures and the protective role they fulfill. The characters can symbolize previous generations, mythical ancestors, but the owners of the attic also appear frequently. The kanaga mask, symbol of the hunter and warrior, is often represented there. As also the Niger River or protective animals like the crocodile, the lebé snake or the turtle. Also often present, the cones in relief indicate the breasts of “nommo”, the mythical ancestor, an allegory of fertility. Very beautiful ethnic piece to hang on the wall for an original decoration!