Exceptional Artifact & Collectible Auction
Lot 393:
Dogon Carved Wooden Door Lock with Guardian Figures, Early 20th Century
Early 20th century Dogon carved wooden door lock from Malifeaturing a stylized human guardian figure carved into the frontof the locking mechanism
The lock includes a rectangular cutout and internal wooden andmetal components typical of traditional Dogon granary locks andhousehold locks used to secure storage buildings and livingspaces
Dogon locks served both functional and symbolic rolesThe carved guardian figure acted as a protective presenceintended to safeguard the home family and stored grain
Warm patina surface wear and visible tool marks are consistentwith age long use and authentic West African craftsmanship
A strong example of functional West African sculpture Dogontribal art and traditional Mali wood carving
Approximate measurements
9 1 4 in by 3 3 4 in by 1 in
ProvenanceFrom the Douglas Graham Collection
Condition: Authentic
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