Dimensions and Weight:
Weight: 3.141 kg
Height: 79 cm
Width: 15 cm
Dogon Pharmacopoeia
Dogon pharmacopoeias are traditional objects from the culture of the Dogon people, an ethnic group mainly residing in Mali, West Africa. Here is some information about these boxes and their cultural context:
Cultural Context
Dogon: The Dogon are known for their rich cultural heritage, including architecture, sculpture, and religious rites. They primarily inhabit the region around the Bandiagara Escarpment.
Traditional Medicine: The Dogon use a variety of medicinal plants and shamanic practices to treat illnesses and maintain health. Pharmacy boxes play an important role in these practices.
Characteristics of Dogon Pharmacy Boxes
Materials: These boxes are typically made of wood, often decorated with carved motifs representing religious symbols, human or animal figures.
Function: They are used to store medicinal plants, amulets, and other ritual objects. They may also contain tools used by traditional healers, known as marabouts or priests.
Design and Symbolism: The carved motifs on these boxes may depict elements of Dogon cosmology, including creation myths, ancestors, and protective spirits. The boxes themselves can vary in shape, from simple chests to more elaborate objects with multiple compartments.
Spiritual and Social Importance
Rituals: Pharmacy boxes are often used in healing ceremonies and protection rituals. They are considered sacred objects and may be passed down through generations.
Role of the Healer: The Dogon healer is a key figure in the community, using the pharmacy box as an essential tool in their work. They are often consulted for physical, mental, and spiritual health issues.
Conservation and Collection
Museums and Private Collections: Due to their artistic and cultural value, Dogon pharmacy boxes are often found in museums and private collections of African art. They are prized for their aesthetic appeal and rich symbolism.
Preservation: Preserving these objects requires special care, especially due to their primary material, wood, which can be sensitive to temperature and humidity fluctuations.
Notable Examples
Exhibitions: Dedicated exhibitions on Dogon art in museums worldwide often highlight these pharmacy boxes, providing insights into their use and significance in Dogon culture.
Publications: Specialized works on Dogon art and culture also discuss pharmacy boxes in detail, detailing their characteristics and their role in Dogon society.
Conclusion
Dogon pharmacopoeias are more than mere containers; they are witnesses to a rich tradition of medicine and spirituality, as well as deeply symbolic works of art.
500.00 €
