Accession Number
2005/1.240

Title
Stool

Artist(s)

Object Creation Date
20th century

Medium & Support
wood

Dimensions
14 9/16 in x 13 7/16 in x 13 9/16 in (37 cm x 34.2 cm x 34.5 cm)

Credit Line
Gift of Candis and Helmut Stern

Subject matter
Stools have been used in many African cultures, whether as everyday items or as prestige objects. While it is not known exactly where this stool came from or who created it, that it is supported by human figures suggests it could possibly have been used in a ceremonial context. Stools, especially those supported by human or animal figures, were often associated with leadership or important individuals in a community. 

References Cited: 
Bocola, Sandro, ed. 1995. African Seats. Munich and New York: Prestel-Verlag. 

Physical Description
Wooden stool with a circular base and four human figures supporting the upper portion. The figures have horizontal grooves decorating their wrists and ankles. The edge of the upper portion of the stool is decorated with incised diamond shapes. 

Primary Object Classification
Furniture and Furniture Accessories

Primary Object Type
stool

Collection Area
African

Rights
If you are interested in using an image for a publication, please visit http://umma.umich.edu/request-image for more information and to fill out the online Image Rights and Reproductions Request Form. Keywords
power
seats (furniture components)
stools (seating furniture)