Equestrian figure c. 1450

This Equestrian Figure was created by Djenne artists from Mali. It stands at approximately 28 inches in height, carved from a single piece of wood. Observe the formal qualities of the sculpture; the elongated proportions of the rider and the horse, and the columnar structure of the figure. This aesthetic imparts a sense of verticality and monumentality, drawing the eye upward. Note the texture of the wood, it's grain and the marks left by the carving tools. These details provide a tactile dimension to the work, and the variations in shade across its surface create depth and shadow. This sculpture reflects the formal language often used in African art to convey symbolic meaning. The horse, a symbol of power and prestige, elevates the figure to a position of authority. The artist has used form not only to depict an equestrian figure but to symbolize status and power within the Djenne cultural context.