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Brutalist Tribal Folk Wrought Iron Horse Figure 1950s
About the Item
A delightful tribal brutalist sculpture of a horse, showing exceptional character and decorative appeal.
The origin of these figures is disputed. There are arguments made for this type of work as an early 20th Century Dogon tribal production from West Africa. While the horse is a strong figure in the Dogon tradition, the Dogon figures are made of solid iron, not sheet iron, are more rounded in the body, and often sport a set of reins, sometimes even a rider. After extensive research, we're convinced this is an early to mid 20th century example of 'Loha Shilp' wrought iron, originating from the 'Lohar' or blacksmiths of the Bastari tribes, centred in the state of Chhattisgarh, India.
The defining features of the Bastari blacksmith's work are the use of flat iron, obvious hammer marks, Impressed and cut patterns and strong simple forms - they are made quickly and not overworked. This makes them expressive and elegant, free of intricacy or decoration apart from a few strokes that might indicate an eye, a mane, a knee joint or a tail.
The Lohar of the Bastar tribes are still working today, but much of the work has taken on features that appeal to the tourist or export markets. These may include decorative screens and wall hangings that don't reflect the original purpose of Bastari ironwork. The older, original tribal works are much stronger and more expressive, and the horse offered here is a beautiful example.
Notable in this piece is the very appealing 'essence of horse' (if we can coin a term), and the lovely aged patina. The horse has an energetic, upright, alert appearance. This is an older Bastari tribal work, simple and strong, originally made to be used as a votive offering. Its patina suggests an age somewhere between 70 and 50 years old.
These iron horses were offered at village shrines, especially at local deities’ altars, or used in rituals to honor ancestors. They embody strength, endurance, and movement, and are considered protective symbols. Though tribal in origin, they’ve entered folk and contemporary art markets, prized for their stark and powerful forms.
There is another of these hand forged iron horse figures listed in our storefront. It was sourced, by pure good fortune, only days after the first. I have not found or seen any other examples of this age or quality before or since.
If you find this piece appealing and affordable, I suggest you purchase immediately. These original early to mid 20th century Bastari Lohar works do not come available very often. There are contemporary versions, but they lack the immediacy, formal strength and spirited feeling of these original ritual offerings. Much prized by collectors and horse lovers, this one will move fast!
- Dimensions:Height: 7.09 in (18 cm)Width: 7.88 in (20 cm)Depth: 3.94 in (10 cm)
- Style:Brutalist (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:1950
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use.
- Seller Location:Melbourne, AU
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU2656344909672
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