This monumental vessel, called aduno koro, or ‘ark of the world,’ displays imagery relating to the founding of Dogon communities. In Dogon mythology, this vessel was sent by Amma, the creator god, to carry the eight original humans (the human figures on the vessel’s side) and their belongings to earth. The ark was guided by Nommo, the primordial being who brought order to the universe and, upon reaching earth, was transformed into a horse (represented by the head on one end of the vessel). The lizard-like figure represents the crocodile that swallowed Nommo after they transported the ark to the water so it could float. This ritual vessel would have been used during the Dogon festival of Goru, the culmination of winter solstice rituals celebrating the millet harvest.