The Togu Na | A House Post

The "Togu na" house is one of the first buildings erected in the village. It is a place that only men, mostly village elders, are allowed to go to discuss community affairs. The roof of this building is supported by posts such as this object. The average size of these posts though is only five and a half feet tall, making the roofs quite low. This aligns with the Dogon's belief that level-headed, valuable conversation only comes from men who are seated. Also, it allows for the secrecy and sense of community that the Dogon strive for. Many of these posts are carved with women or men with enlarged genitalia. This spiritual representation is supposed to bring forth fertility and therefore, the future of the community. 

Dogon/Mali Culture

ca. 20th century

Wood, carving

Gift of Martha and Robert Fogelman

2008.2.62