The Art of the Personal Object

The stool is the most ubiquitous form of African furniture, the basic support for the body at rest. African stools have been created in an astonishing range of forms. Generally, seats have a comfortably curved surface to support the body. Legs, pedestals, and bases are designed for stability. Surfaces may be embellished to enhance the beauty of the stool. Many stools are also designed for portability. Handles are often built into the form, or a part of the stool, such as a leg can serve as a means for carrying.


Stool
Dinka peoples, Sudan
H. 17.8 cm (7 in.)
89-8-2, acquisition grant from the James Smithson Society

introduction introduction rest


Back to: NMAfA past exhibits