Chokwe — Angola
19th century
Wood and metal
Height: 27 in (68.6 cm)
Provenance: Belgium trade
Chokwe prestige chairs are among the most culturally significant objects produced in the Chokwe tradition, associated with chiefly authority and the display of status within a political system in which the chair served as a throne-like symbol of legitimate power. The back panel of this example is carved in relief with a human figure set against an incised geometric ground, a decorative program that combines figural and abstract elements in a manner characteristic of Chokwe surface decoration. Metal hardware reinforces the joints, and the carved feet extend the object's formal elaboration to its base.
The slatted seat, straight back, and overall construction reflect the influence of European chair forms absorbed and transformed within the Chokwe tradition during the contact period, producing objects that functioned within indigenous political contexts while incorporating new structural vocabulary. The surface carries a warm dark patina consistent with sustained use over an extended period.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
Chokwe — Angola
19th century
Wood and metal
Height: 27 in (68.6 cm)
Provenance: Belgium trade
Chokwe prestige chairs are among the most culturally significant objects produced in the Chokwe tradition, associated with chiefly authority and the display of status within a political system in which the chair served as a throne-like symbol of legitimate power. The back panel of this example is carved in relief with a human figure set against an incised geometric ground, a decorative program that combines figural and abstract elements in a manner characteristic of Chokwe surface decoration. Metal hardware reinforces the joints, and the carved feet extend the object's formal elaboration to its base.
The slatted seat, straight back, and overall construction reflect the influence of European chair forms absorbed and transformed within the Chokwe tradition during the contact period, producing objects that functioned within indigenous political contexts while incorporating new structural vocabulary. The surface carries a warm dark patina consistent with sustained use over an extended period.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
