This stunning door has a number of figures carved in relief. The Dogon farm in an environment that is marginal and demanding therefore they depend upon the food they produce to live storing it in granaries made of mud with thatched roofs and carved doors such as this one providing access to the food held in the grainery. Most Dogon carvings of humans refer to primordial ancestors known as Nommo who brought humankind to earth and who were the first farmers and blacksmiths. Figures dance across the surface in reflection of Dogon celebrating the idea of life and nourishment and to honor the ancestors. Also it warned those who would steal grain or violate a shrine that the ancestors would take retribution against them. This door is composed of two panels of wood that were joined together by native made staples. Carved doors are rare as Islam has come into the Dogon area displacing traditional beliefs and symbolism. (Part of a Private Collection from the Tillman Estate) 72.00x20.00x2.00 inches