Dogon Bronze Nommo Axe Antique African Metal Staff Mali

A Fine Dogon Bronze Hogon's Prestige Axe, Nommo Head with Sun Lizard
Antique African Art - Ritual Prestige Object - Mali

Collected from the: Dogon peoples of the Seno Plains in Mali, West Africa
Material: Bronze, old lost wax casting of copper/tin alloy
Period: Early 20th century
Dimensions: 11 7/8" height, 5 3/4" length from nose to blade edge, 3/4" width; weight is 1.40 pounds
Condition: Exceptional - no damage or repair, exquisite patina indicative of wear, age and use, skin oil from handling. Held in a private Parisian collection, the condition of this piece remains unchanged from the time of its original field acquisition. Gorgeous deep chocolate patina displays generous brassy highlights with liberal traces of verdigris, calcification and African soil - nice!

"It must be remembered that Hogons are not only religious leaders but also political ones as well. The Dogon fought many battles with their neighbors and among themselves. The Hogons assumed the role of military leaders at such times and led their men to battle. The iconographic prominence of the sun lizard, the Dogon symbol of the circumcised foreskin, may suggest that this axe was used during circumcision rituals." See Imperato's Dogon Cliff Dwellers for further details.

Please to fully appreciate this important old piece!