Page 34 - Highlights of the Collection
P. 34

Ancestor figure



                                                                                                                                             Mali, 1200-1300
                                                                                                                                             H. 95.5 cm, wood







                                                                                                                                             This hermaphrodite sculpture from the pre-Dogon
                                                                                                                                             period, prior to the 15th century, is thought to
                                                                                                                                             represent a mythical ancestor, as opposed to a human,
                                                                                                                                             which would entail sexual differentiation. Figures
                                                                                                                                             of this type are still very much present in Dogon
                                                                                                                                             mythology where they are used in initiation ceremonies
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             Highlights of the Collection
                                                                                                                                             for adolescents.








                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             Louvre Abu Dhabi









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