Dogon Amulet

Origin: Dogon, Mali.

Period: 19-20th century.

Provenance: Belgic private collection.

Material: Bronze.

Size: 6x2cm.

Delve into the enigmatic world of the Dogon people, as represented by a captivating small bronze amulet depicting a human figure. The Dogon, inhabitants of Mali's rugged landscapes, have carved a distinctive niche in the annals of history. Originating from a period that stretches back centuries, the Dogon have mastered the art of harmonizing their spiritual beliefs with the tangible world, a synergy reflected in their use of amulets.

The Dogon blacksmiths form an endogamous caste among the Dogon people, known as "irim." Today, they produce weapons, tools, and also work with wood. Associated with the primordial beings "Nommo" in Dogon cosmology, created by the god Ama, they are also believed to possess the ability to heal burns. Small metal objects, crafted using the lost-wax technique, were widespread in the region of the Inner Niger Delta, with copper reaching there through trans-Saharan trade. Excavations on the Bandiagara Plateau have indeed revealed remnants of ironworking sites predating the 15th century, when the Dogon arrived. Since the Islamization of the region, which prohibits human representations, such small ritual objects have diminished. Mostly carved upon commission by a family, Dogon statues can also serve as objects of worship for the entire community. However, their specific functions remain largely unknown.These amulets, like the one before you, serve as intimate conduits to the Dogon's spiritual realm. The Dogon's relationship with these artifacts extends far beyond aesthetics; they are guardians of a profound cosmic understanding. Within the intricate contours of this amulet, you glimpse the Dogon's homage to the human form, an expression of their belief in the interconnectedness of all living beings.

Amulets within Dogon culture transcend ornamentation. They are tools of protection, conduits for channeling energies, and a bridge to their ancestors. Carved with exquisite care, each amulet resonates with the Dogon's reverence for the unseen forces that shape their lives. Passed down through generations, these amulets encapsulate the Dogon's legacy of preserving ancient wisdom in a world undergoing constant change.

Owning this bronze amulet is an invitation to join the Dogon's ongoing narrative. It's a tangible piece of their journey through time, an exploration of their intricate dance between the physical and metaphysical. As you hold this amulet, you're holding a fragment of the Dogon's connection to the cosmos, a testament to a culture that continues to illuminate the mysteries of existence through the delicate threads of tradition, symbolism, and spiritual insight.