Stool ·  R. D. Congo, Luba · ID: 3034932

Description

heavy wood, shiny brown patina, black paint, extraordinary type: round seat supported by two kneeling resp. sitting figures with rich body scarifications, rep. (right knee of the left figure), cracks, slight traces of abrasion;
such stools were only brought out on special occasions, such as birth, initiation, marriage, or in case of death. They were reserved for a political and spiritual “upper class”, such as kings, chiefs, priests, medicine men, healers or dignitaries. They mainly had representative and/or ritual function, but were given away to other chiefs or dignitaries as well. They were not made for the public. When not in use, they were wrapped in white cloth and were kept in a safe place.