Figure of a hermaphrodite ·  Mali, Dogon · ID: 3039521

Description

wood, greyish brown patina, encrusted in some areas, remains of black paint, provided with female sexual characteristics and prominent navel, as well as with disc-shaped projecting beard, slightly dam. (ears, nose), missing parts (face, left breast, base), fine cracks, base;
the Dogon placed male and female figures on altars, which mostly were dedicated to ancestors, either of real or of mythical origin. The figurative sculpture is called “dege” and was used to be poured with ritual liquids.