Traditional four-legged stool — Peulh, Mali — African tribal art — Ref. 231

Description

This stool comes from the Peulh, or Fulani, one of the oldest and most widespread nomadic groups of West Africa, notably present in Mali. Among the Peulh, carved wooden stools are objects of prestige, often associated with the figure of the chief, the herder or the honourable man in the community.
Used both as an everyday seat and during ceremonies or community meetings, this type of furniture embodies mobility, sobriety and functional elegance. Its low form, four sturdy legs and wide, slightly curved seat are characteristic of traditional Peulh stools.
The piece, carved from a single block of hard wood, shows a beautiful patina of use, numerous traces of wear, as well as visible old splits, reinforcing its authenticity. It does not appear to have undergone any modern restoration.

Technical details

Type of piece

Mobilier

Category

Traditional furniture

Ethnic group

Peulh

Country

Mali

Materials

wood

Dimensions

H 11 × W 24 × D 45 cm

Weight

3,7 kg

Estimated dating

second half 20th c.

Laboratory test

Not tested

Reference

231