Stool

19th-20th century; Zaire, Luba-Songye; Wood; 52.7 cm (20 3/4 in.); Founders Society Purchase, Robert H. Tannahill Foundation Fund; 75.1

Songye stools upheld by human figures symbolize the might of a chief who is supported by someone of inferior rank. Among the neighboring Luba peoples similar stools were made for use by kings as their throne for state occasions. It is thought that the Songye adopted this type of stool from the Luba.