Description:

Central Africa, Angola, Zambia, and Democratic Republic of the Congo, Chokwe peoples, ca. 19th to 20th century CE. An amazing chair for a chief or king made from wood with anthropomorphic figures and a seat made from cow hide. The chair is low to the ground with an open back and top rail that is carved in high relief of a stylized face to represent an ancestor figure. The square seat is formed from a tightly stretched hide tied to the four legs, with strips of hide woven under the seat to strengthen the assembly. The four legs support the stretcher beams which are decorated with groups of relief carved figures engaged in everyday life and rituals. The figures represent the social harmony of the citizens and community the king oversees. On one rung a woman cradles a baby while another pair pounds a mortar with pestles, on the other side the men carry a litter with a recumbent figure; perhaps engaged in funerary rites. Size: 15" L x 13.5" W x 25" H (38.1 cm x 34.3 cm x 63.5 cm)

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-Jean-Pierre Hallet collection, California, USA

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Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.

#161302

  • Condition: In good condition. Chips and losses to arms and bodies of several figures on stretcher beams. Back figure is almost entirely loose and should be reinforced. Nice patina to wood. Darkening and some staining to hide seat. Not recommended for sitting on.

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January 9, 2022 9:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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