Carved Dogon Door Panel

Carved hardwood door panel by the Dogon people of Mali, West Africa.  The Dogon are a primarily cliff-dwelling people who make these intricate doors for granaries and also for use within homes; they are often exchanged as gifts and tokens of important events.  Imagery of animals, village scenes and fertility figures is meant to attract luck, ward against evil or communicate the occupation or status of the owner.  This panel features women bearing baskets, geometric designs and stylized crocodiles, which symbolize power.  Constructed in two pieces which are joined by inset wood strips and hammered iron pegs, with door latch.  Early to mid 20th century.

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