Dogon headrest - Dogon - Mali

Antique wrought-iron miniature headrest coming from the Pays Dogon of Mali. These items were given to the deceased, when buried in one of the numerous burial caves in this region. Very simpel but strong design; bigger and thicker than most of these ceremonial headrests. Coming from the Early-Dogon or even from the preceding Tellem-period, which would make this object coming from the 14-16th Cent. Yet, the datation is given for reference only, and formal authentication is required. Collected in the village of Jajé in the late 1990,s. From a private Dutch collection. Dim..; 17 x 13 xm.