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Iconographic Meaning

Carved in high relief, the figures represent the eight pairs of ancestors, Nommo, bisexual water deities that descended from the sky to found
the eight Dogon lineages, and bestow knowledge of agriculture, weaving and smithing. One of six panels.

Description

Wooden door carved with central design of one row of two human figures flanking three Kanaga masks, two rows of five large human figures separated by geometric lines. The sides mirror each other, and each have a bird-like creature, a spear, and one large serpent. There are also geometric lines across the top and bottom, and metal joins at top and bottom holding together the two pieces of wood that the door is made from. There are some remnants of white pigment.

History Of Use

Dogon granaries are narrow mud-bricked structures with thatched-roofs that store millet sorghum rice, corn, fonio, beans and other staples. Speaking poorly of the millet is believed to cause the millet crop to disappear, or "walk off". In Dogon myth, Ogo steals seeds from Amma, the Almighty, which is akin to the "Original Sin". Therefore, the Dogon place a high importance on keeping and storing grains safely. There are several granaries for each family, and the shutters are either placed as doors or windows. Traditionally, windows are placed two thirds up the north wall of the granary. Some shutters are additionally used on Binu sanctuaries; the Binu are immortal beings who are seen as a source of power and protection for each Dogon clan. The Binu spirits are said to commonly reveal themselves to their descendants by contacting them through the form of an animal during a clan's founding or migration. The Dogon appeal to the Binu for prosperity, fertility, rain, and an abundant crop.