ArtTribal.com

Dogon Door Lock

ArtTribal.com

Sold

The Dogon inhabit the large austere Bandiagara plateau, with most of the villages situated on cliffs to the north and the east. At first hunters, they now cultivate their staple diet millet, and also sorghum, and wheat on the cliff tops, which they have had to convert due to the scarcity of water sources. The Dogon are among African cultures that have remained closest to their ancestral traditions.

One such tradition is building granaries and houses for grain storage. Doors of these granaries are often adorned with  impressive carvings of animals or people which serve as invocations of deities or spirits, or as symbols of status.  The stored grain is considered "safe" when it is guarded by the ancestors whose images are depicted on granary doors.

Such doors have very impressive locks on them. This particular lock has a triangular head of a mythical lizzard. Its teeth are meant as a warning to intruders. And it is in working order!

 

Product Details:

  • Size: 23" x 6"
  • Shipping: $50.00
  • Material: Wood, metal
  • Quantity: Sorry, this product is not available
  • SKU:

African Masks & Sculptures

We feature over 500 authentic African tribal masks, sculptures, and bronzes for sale. Our products are unique, hand picked, museum quality pieces.

African art at wholesale prices.

Absolutely no reproductions!

Newsletter

Join our mailing list and be first to receive exclusive "recent acquisitions" mailings and discounts. We promise to only send you good things.