LUBA (and TABWA) STOOLS

LUBA Stool 1 18" high $500

TABWA Stool 2 15.5" high $400

LUBA Stool 6 15" high $300

LUBA Stool 7 15.5" high $450

LUBA Stool 10 17" high $400

LUBA Stool 21 20" high $600

LUBA Stool 22 20" high SOLD

LUBA Stool 26 17" high SOLD

LUBA/TABWA Stool 29 13.5" high $500

TABWA Stool 31 13.5" high $1000

LUBA Stool 36 16" high $600

LUBA Stool 46 17" high $500

LUBA, STOOLS, DRC

Most Luba art relates to kings and important chiefs, who defined their power by the display of prestige objects during important ceremonies. Stools were among the most important of these objects. The ruler was literally as well as figuratively supported by a female caryatid figure, which also symbolizes the continuity of power in a matrilineal society. Elaborate coiffures and scarification patterns attested to the high rank of both the depicted female and the owner of the stool. Stools like these are among the most prized in Africa. The Luba are also known for their figurative headrests, which helped to protect their elaborate hair styles. Numbers 29 and 31 have distinctly Tabwa hairstyles.

Despite their appearance, we believe that most of these stools were made to be sold.