$700
Dogon people (Western Africa (Mali)), circa 20th century. A carved wood marriage bench or stool comprising a rectangular foot at bottom with pierced sides bearing carved geometric and figural patterning in relief, surmounted by seat formed of male and female figure torsos joined at the waist with linked arms to either side and sculptural heads at either end, the bench top surface carved showing the woman with full breasts, the man with exposed pecs, with the two anatomies joined by tribal motif carving. Approximate height 13", width 41.5", depth 11.5". Provenance: From the Private Collection of Dr. & Mrs. Calvin Wayne McLarin, Atlanta, Georgia. Note: these benches are presented to brides on their wedding day as a symbol of the union with her new husband.
Auctioneer:
Ahlers & Ogletree Auction Gallery
Date:
2016-06-25
