West Africa, Mali, Bamana Dogon, Senufo People, ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. A massive wood panel with a slightly curved shape and a relief carved crocodile or lizard upon the outer face, while other side is scooped and smoothed for use as a chair backrest. These special seats are often attributed as birthing chairs, however this type was also used for prestiege. The missing seat was likely a separate panel inserted through the legs, perpendicular to this panel, which enabled the chair to fold or come apart for easy transport-ideal for semi-nomadic cultures. The symbols carved are protective, some meant to represent deities, and myths in highly abstract form. Size: 13.5" W x 50" H (34.3 cm x 127 cm)

Provenance: private San Francisco, California, USA collection, acquired 1970s to 2000s

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#176838

Missing seat panel. Old inactive insect bore holes throughout. Stable pressure fissures, and Losses and splintering to peripheries as shown. Nice weathered surface and patina.