GENERAL DESCRIPTION
This stool is carved in the form of two opposing cones that appear as if they are separate pieces joined at their narrow ends; however, the stool was carved from a single block of wood. The two cone-forms are thought to be symbolic: the upper cone symbolizes the skies or heaven and the lower one the earth.
Belonging to a Dan village chief, this stool would elevate the leader above other villagers seated on mats on the ground, indicating his privileged status. On special occasions, such as the public events following boys' initiation into manhood, the young men were allowed to sit on a stool such as this one in recognition of their new status.
Excerpt from
Roslyn A. Walker, Label text, Arts of Africa, 2015.
NOTES
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Artist/designers
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RELATED OBJECTS
PROVENANCE
n.d.: Marc and Denyse Ginzberg, Rye, New York
n.d.: Merton Simpson Gallery, New York
2009: Dallas Museum of Art, purchased through Jacaranda Tribal, New York
The main source for this provenance is the Acquisition Proposal in the Collections Records object file.
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WEB RESOURCES
- University of Iowa Museum of Art, Art & Life in Africa~Learn more about furniture in African cultures.
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Apply to objects where number equals 2009.38.1
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General Description
This stool is carved in the form of two opposing cones that appear as if they are separate pieces joined at their narrow ends; however, the stool was carved from a single block of wood. The two cone-forms are thought to be symbolic: the upper cone symbolizes the skies or heaven and the lower one the earth.
Belonging to a Dan village chief, this stool would elevate the leader above other villagers seated on mats on the ground, indicating his privileged status. On special occasions, such as the public events following boys' initiation into manhood, the young men were allowed to sit on a stool such as this one in recognition of their new status.
Excerpt from
Roslyn A. Walker, Label text, Arts of Africa, 2015.
Fun Facts
Archival Resources
Web Resources
- University of Iowa Museum of Art, Art & Life in Africa~Learn more about furniture in African cultures.
Notes
Catalogue essays
Artist/designers
Cultures
Geography
Process/materials
Historical periods
Individuals
Subject terms
RELATED OBJECTS
PROVENANCE
n.d.: Marc and Denyse Ginzberg, Rye, New York
n.d.: Merton Simpson Gallery, New York
2009: Dallas Museum of Art, purchased through Jacaranda Tribal, New York
The main source for this provenance is the Acquisition Proposal in the Collections Records object file.
AUDIO ASSETS
VIDEO ASSETS
rules
Apply To
Objects
number
Equals
2009.38.1
source file
object_notes_4_a-0327.xml.nores