West Africa, Mali, Bamana / Dogon peoples, ca. early to mid-20th century CE. A hand-carved door lock depicting a stylized figure riding a horse atop a broad panel incised with linear patterns and an openwork lower base. The horizontal slide bar is incised with decorative lines and has a deep rectangular groove along the verso side with perforations for securing iron nails which rest inside the main panel. Bolt locks such as this piece are known as "ta koguru" and are found in Bamana and Dogon societies in many different styles. They are typically used to secure wooden doors of granaries and are sometimes given as traditional bridal gifts. Size: 19" L x 2" W x 21" H (48.3 cm x 5.1 cm x 53.3 cm)

Provenance: ex-private Bishop Family Trust collection, the Trust of the late Bill Bishop, a noted antiquarian with shops in Scottsdale, Arizona and Allenspark, Colorado, USA, acquired before 2010

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#173307

Loss to horse's ear. Age expected surface wear and stable fissures. Nice patina throughout. Bar is not completely attached and is removable.