Dogon Lock Depicting A Couple

Although not the oldest lock out there, this is easily the most worn example I’ve ever examined. It clearly saw years of constant service in which the cross bar was slid repeatedly from the locked to open position as evidenced by the deep, curved channel the bar has worn into the body of the lock. The metal elements are similarly worn in a manner consistent with the lock’s function and appropriate use. The carved male and female pair atop the lock likely represent the Dogon primordial couple, a frequently encountered theme in Dogon public, and family, shrine religious sculpture. The couple do not represent the owners of the home or granary secured by this lock. Rather, the couple represents the mythical ancestors of the Dogon people. The crocodile on the body of the lock is similarly a primary motif of the Dogon, found on doors and walls as well as dramatized in masks. The Dogon have an ancient relationship with the reptiles, in some villages maintaining a ritual crocodile pond. Crocodiles are seen as emissaries of spirit world. They are ceremonially fed and consulted by diviners. Crocodiles are feared as a taker of life and revered for their power, resiliency and longevity — enviable qualities for household and community. Mounted. $875

15.5″

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