Staff: Seated Male Figure 16th-17th century Dogon or Bozo peoples A large male figure in full regalia, seated on a spool-shaped stool, forms the finials of this bronze and iron staff. Details of dress and body ornamentation-including the elaborate headdress and stylized beard, complex patterns on the skin, heavy pendant, armlets, bracelets, and anklets, and the decorated wrappers around the chest and waist-reveal an individual of high status. The figure holds a spear in his right hand and bears a dagger in a decorated sheath on his left arm, conveying the impression of success in the hunt as well as in battle.Cast as one piece, the finial's decorative features reveal the high degree of skill that the craftsman devoted to producing this flawless object. The scalloped edges of the beard, the textured surfaces of the chest band and waist cloth, and the zigzag patterns on the jewelry and knife sheath imbue the work with a visual richness that attracts and dazzles the eye.The origins of thi