Long traditional Peulh stool-bed — Peulh, Mali — African tribal art — Ref. 317

Description

This traditional bed attributed to the Peulh people of Mali is distinguished by its elongated form, carved from a single massive block of dark, dense and heavy wood. Measuring 185 cm long and weighing 30 kg, it rests on four short, stocky legs, ensuring stability on the ground. The slightly raised rectangular headrest is integrated into the end of the platform, typical of Peulh beds. The rounded ends and the absence of heavy decoration attest to a sober but mastered aesthetic, faithful to furniture objects of the Peulh pastoral tradition.
Used both as a sleeping place, ritual bench or object of prestige, this type of furniture formed part of the domestic environment of family heads or elders. The bed could also be used during vigils or important meetings within the family enclosure. It evokes the status of its owner, as well as the refinement of utilitarian arts among the Peulh.
Carved from black wood with a thick and old patina, the object shows marks of wear consistent with its age and traces of use on the seating surface. The whole is in very good structural condition, with no visible restorations, which supports its authenticity.

Technical details

Availability

Unavailable

Type of piece

Mobilier

Category

Traditional furniture

Ethnic group

Peulh

Country

Mali

Materials

wood

Dimensions

H 185 × W 40 × D 30 cm

Weight

30 kg

Estimated dating

second half 20th c.

Laboratory test

Not tested

Reference

317