500 Gallery
Timed Auction

Summer Fine Art

Mon, Jul 1, 2024 12:00PM EDT - Thu, Jul 11, 2024 05:00PM EDT
Lot 93

African Tribal Ritual Vessel with Equestrian & Horses, Dogon, Mali

Estimate: $4,000 - $6,000

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $10
$100 $25
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $250
$5,000 $500
$20,000 $1,000
$50,000 $2,500
African Tribal Art: Dogon People, Mali: An elaborately decorated ritual vessel, carved wooden hollowed ovoid vessel with a convex lid, Early/Mid 20th century.

The large equestrian figure surmounting this warmly toned and finely patinated vessel is flanked by four seated figures: a male and female on each side. The body and lid of the vessel are decorated with incised geometric designs, leading down to a raised base where ten Nomo figures sit, supporting the vessel with their heads. The Nomo are held aloft by two horses which stand on a flat rectangular base. Iron cleats show tribal repairs along several age-cracks in the body of the vessel.

The equestrian image expresses status and prestige. The Nomo figures evoke the original Dogon ancestors. Ceremonial/ritual bowls with equestrian figures are utilized in harvest celebrations.

Comparable (but simpler) ritual vessels are illustrated in African and Oceanic Art, Sotheby's, New York, Friday November 19th, 1999, Lot 17, and in African Art In American Collections, Robbins and Nooter, Page 63, plate 29.

Approx. 30.25H x 10W x 10D (inches).

Private Collection, Massachusetts, Private Collection, New York

Condition

Good condition, showing age, use, and tribal repairs. Some insect damage at the base, extending to the tail and hind legs of one horse, as can be seen in the photos.

NOTE: If documentation is not listed, the lot is sold without documents.

Please refer to our Terms and Conditions prior to bidding. Color fidelity of photos presented is not guaranteed. Lack of a condition statement does not imply that a lot is perfect. Please examine photos, read descriptions, and contact the Gallery with any questions prior to bidding. All sales are final. Winning bidders will be sent invoices from our gallery. Credit cards are accepted for invoices under $1000. Higher amounts must be paid by e-check or wire transfer.

Available payment options

  • Visa
  • Mastercard
  • Amex
  • Diners
  • Discover
  • JCB
  • Union Pay

500 Gallery offers in-house shipping for most items. Shipping cost will be listed on your invoice. Please inquire ahead of the auction if you're unsure as to potential shipping costs or to retrieve a shipping estimate/quote.