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Graphic symbolism in the Dogon granary: grains, time, and the notion of history

Journal of African studies3 (1) • Published In 1976 • Pages: 35-50

By: Flam, Jack D..

Abstract
As the title suggests, this source is concerned with the symbolic significance of the Dogon granary. The author begins with a discussion of Dogon graphic symbolism in general and of how Dogon graphic design is anchored in the nature of Dogon thought. He follows with a description of the construction and physical characteristics of one particular Dogon granary. In the symbolic analysis of the granary Flam discusses 1) the relationship between the construction of the granary and the nature of Dogon thought and 2) the mythological events and characters and cosmology of the Dogon recalled and commemorated in the structure of the granary.
Subjects
Outbuildings
Decorative art
Representative art
Numerology
Ethnophysics
culture
Dogon
HRAF PubDate
2000
Region
Africa
Sub Region
Western Africa
Document Type
article
Evaluation
Creator Type
Art Historian
Document Rating
4: Excellent Secondary Data
Analyst
Gerald Reid ; 1988
Field Date
no date
Coverage Date
1962
Coverage Place
Sanga, Bandiagara Circle, Mopti Region, Mali
Notes
Jack D. Flam
Includes bibliographical references
LCCN
74648490
LCSH
Dogons (African people)