Post of a "togu na" ·  Mali, Dogon · ID: 3034057

Description

wood, partly encrusted dark brown patina, fork-shaped top, carved with a stylized female figure, min. dam., fine cracks, slight traces of abrasion, on wooden base;
“togu na” describes a refuge, build for the male village eldest. It is an open construction with vertical elements supporting a thatched roof. In ideal case it consists of eight posts arranged in sinuous line, referring to the eight “nommo” ancestors. The roof is low, so that the men have to sit during the assemblage, but it keeps them cool.

Comparing literature

Spini, Tito & Sandro, Togu Na, Casa della parola, Mailand 1976, p. 234