Medium-sized Bamileke Antique Spider Stool
Medium-sized Bamileke Antique Spider Stool
GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
This piece is in superb antique condition – it is approximately 60 years old. It is a “Bamileke” stool from the West region of Cameroon. It was carved from one single block of the Kola tree.
Due to the antique/vintage nature of this item, 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 a single block of the Kola tree, this unpolished stool was made without much fuss - authentic and with purpose in the daily routine of the villagers. This would indicate that the stool was used for household chores around the house: Most cooking activity tended to be from a low, near-floor position. As this stool is relatively taller, it would indicate that it was destined for other chores, like crushing and grinding ingredients like grain into a fine paste or powder (normally done standing!) with a wooden mortar and pestle.
The well-known earth spider (the abstract X pattern), symbolic of divine knowledge and playing a vital role in problem solving, is discernable in its more rustic and primitive form.
PRODUCT DETAILS/SPECIFICATION:
Type of wood: Wooden stool
Dimensions: Height: 33 cm, Diameter: 28/30 cm, Weight: 3.7 kg
Style: Tribal
Geographic origin: Cameroon
Date of manufacture: mid 1950s
Period: Mid 20th Century
Materials and techniques: Hand carved Kola Wood
Condition: Good
Condition/wear/damage details: It shows wear proportionate with age and use, including expected scratches and general wear on top and sides; Base chipped and small piece missing, dirt but generally is in good condition. It is usual with antique tribal pieces that losses/imperfections exist.
