Luba Figurative Stool

This stool by the Luba people of Zaire beautifully illustrates their storied craft. A single tree trunk was carved down to a column, then carefully taken in further until the form of a kneeling woman with intricately braided hair appeared. She supports the circular seat, representing the foundational support that women provide to their tribe. The hand-carved, scarified detailing and rustic polish of this stool define the character of Luba craftspeople. From practical object to storied sculpture, this stool represents centuries of tribal culture.