Seat-staff "dolaba" ·  Mali, Dogon · ID: 3036690

Description

wood, dark brown patina, remains of pigments, straight handle, fork-shaped, both endings carved with small seated figures, min. dam., cracks, traces of abrasion and usage, base;
“dolaba” is held by all male participants in the “sigi” ceremony, a rite held every six years to commemorate the myth of the origin of death among the Dogon. During the many processions and dances that take place during the three weeks, the staffs are held in the left hand. They are also used as seats during the frequent beer-drinking parts of the ceremony.

Comparing literature

Ezra, Kate, Art of the Dogon, New York 1988, p. 96 f.