Dogon Shrine Ladders
Origin: Mali
Approx Age: Mid 20th Century
Materials: Wood
Dimensions cm: 35, 30, 38 tall
Ref. Number: 1341, 1342, 1343
Three lovely and rare used items, Dogon shrine ladders or also known as spirit ladders. All three items have come from shrines and show evidence of ritual libation, leaving an encrusted patina, they also come with their own base stand.
Provenance: Collected in situ 1970. Ex Lampevelden collection, Netherlands
History
Binu shrines or sanctuaries are separate structures built in the courtyard of the ginna. Each one contains an altar on which the wooden figures are found, leaning against the wall of the shrine. Small bowls, miniature ladders, iron hooks and bracelets, and L-shaped wooden domolo staffs are also placed in binu shrines. Shrine miniature ladders, these works replicate the form of the full-size versions, yet their purpose is spiritual rather than utilitarian. Along with pottery and figurines, miniature ladders were placed in a bowl on altars, where Dogon thought to have inherited the souls of specific ancestors would pour sacrificial offerings. The Dogon believe the ladders facilitate a spirit’s ability to reach his ancestor. In Dogon sacrificial practice, poured libations created a layered patina over the carved wood. The variety of patinas on these ladders, most likely consisting of mixtures of animal blood, minerals from the surrounding landscape, and millet gruel.
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