ANTHROPOMORPHIC STATUETTE called Yapilu Dege

Dogon Culture, Mali

First half of the 20th century

Crusty patina wood

H.: 40; L.: 6; Thickness: 6 cm

This female figure is presented standing, feet together resting on a circular base, legs slightly bent and individualized from each other. She holds her arms along her body, her hands clasped. Her chest is sculpted high on the bust, under a wide collar forming a strawberry. His chin is angular, his eyes in slight relief and his characteristic stylized arrowhead nose.

This statuette associated with fertility refers to the Yapilu ceremony: worship reserved for women who, to protect their pregnancy or ask to give birth, made offerings and libations to the statuette placed on an altar.

Text and photos © FCP CORIDON

Ref.LP: 3031