This hand-forged iron sculpture represents a Dogon ritual snake, a traditional form of metalwork from Mali. The piece is constructed from wrought iron, shaped into a sinuous slithering curve that tapers to a pointed tail. The head is stylized into a flattened triangular shape with two small indentations representing eyes. Several horizontal incised lines are visible near the tail section, likely created during the forging process. The sculpture is freestanding and exhibits a primitive, minimalist aesthetic characteristic of West African ironwork. The entire surface features heavy pitting and a natural oxidation patina consisting of dark brown and amber tones.