Kneeling Dignitary from Mali in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, February 2020

Kneeling Dignitary
12th–14th century

Middle Niger civilization


Object Details

Title: Kneeling Dignitary

Date: 12th–14th century

Geography: Inner Niger Delta, Mali

Culture: Middle Niger civilization

Medium: Terracotta

Dimensions: H. 18 7/8 × W. 13 × D. 8 in., 493.78 oz. (48 × 33 × 20.3 cm, 14 kg)

Classification: Ceramics-Sculpture

Credit Line: Private collection


Middle Niger figurative representations feature a diverse cast of protagonists, from committed couples to the striking personage of a kneeling male. In this example, the man has a pronounced dorsal protrusion and wears otherworldly accessories of a serpent collar and belt. Many of these figures assume recumbent, prostrate, or upward-gazing postures. Gestures of arms crossed against the chest or covering the face suggest attitudes of prayer.


Text from: www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/736390