DOGON, Mali. Hardwood, dark brown patina, metal. Very old crocodile-shaped "konbalabala" lock box for an attic door. As well as the undeniable aesthetic appeal of this lock, the fine engravings have apotropaic powers and the importance to the Dogon of the representation of the crocodile, a sacred animal which, according to myth, helped the founding ancestor to find the source of water. 1st half of the 20th century Height: 61 cm. Width: 13 cm. Minor old damage Provenance: Collection of Patrice CHRISTY, an acknowledged specialist in wildlife conservation, particularly in Africa. He has co-authored several works on biodiversity, and his work has made a major contribution to understanding and preserving bird species in Africa, particularly in Gabon and Sao Tome and Principe. All his objects were collected in the 1970s. Sold without stand