Door Lock - Dogon, Mali (5006)

"The pointed horn-like structures atop this lock could represent stylized Nommo figures or the horns of the Roan antelope" from the book "Legends, Sorcerers, and Enchanted Lizards - Door Locks of The Bamana of Mali" by Pascal James Imperato.

Used to protect houses and granaries, Dogon door locks range from the abstract and symbolic to representations of ancestors. Locks such as these were affixed to granary doors. Placing an image of an ancestor on the door lock provided additional spiritual protection.
Ex Richard Ulevitch collection.

22"H x 13"W x 3.25"D