Small-sized Bamileke Antique Stool (Dotted/Smooth rim)
Small-sized Bamileke Antique Stool (Dotted/Smooth rim)
GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
In an agreeably good antique condition, approximately 60 years old here is a “Bamileke” stool from the West region of Cameroon, carved from single albeit small block of the Kola tree.
Due to the antique/vintage nature of our items, we encourage our buyers to please examine photos closely and carefully read the description and measurements of the items to avoid any disappointments. There might be what seem to be some slight imperfections; most likely they will show flaws consistent with ware, ages, and use, which only add character and charm to the items. Each item is described and photographed as accurately as possible.
If you have questions about a particular item or would like to order, please contact Tribal Traces. We are more than happy and willing to answer.
BACKSTORY:
The Bamileke/Graffi are native peoples living in the west and Northwest regions of Cameroon. Carved from single blocks of the Kola tree, these stool were made without much fanfare. Food was usually prepared in the middle of the one room house, on a clay hearth 20-25 cm high, designed to support the cooking pot. The stools are small with carved patterns but unpolished. The low height would indicate that these stools were used for household chores around the house, as most cooking and cooking activity would have tended to be from a low, near-floor position; preparing the leafy vegetables, peeling cassava, yams, etc.; grinding corn meal on a grinding stone.
The rudiments of the well-known earth spider (the abstract X pattern), symbolic of divine knowledge and playing a vital role in problem solving, is discernible in its more rustic and primitive style.
PRODUCT DETAILS/SPECIFICATION:
Type of object: Wooden stool
Dimensions: Dotted rimmed stool: Height: 20 cm, Diameter: 24/26 cm, Weight: 2 kg
Smooth rimmed stool: Height: 26 cm, Diameter: 25/28 cm, Weight: 2 kg
Style: Tribal
Geographic origin: Cameroon
Date of manufacture: mid 1950s
Period: Mid 20th Century
Materials and techniques: Hand carved Kola Wood
Condition: Excellent
Condition/wear/damage details: It shows wear proportionate with age and use, including expected scratches, cracks and general wear on top and sides; Crack on bottom rim and dirt but generally is in good condition. It is usual with antique tribal pieces that losses/imperfections exist.
