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African Stools Stools and chairs, both as objects of everyday use and as symbols of status and power within society, are a traditional part of daily life in sub-Saharan Africa. Over the centuries the most varied forms of seating have evolved among the peoples of this region.
People in traditional African villages use stools daily while they eat, work or hold meetings. Although it may be assumed by those of us in the West that furniture is intended for general use by family or friends, African societies consider their carved stools and chairs to be extremely personal. They would be shocked if anyone other than themselves were to use their individual seat. Even some groups hold to the belief that a individual's stool was the container for the owner's soul. In this way, within some societies, stools were not only treasured by the owner, but came to signify status and were objects.
African stools very quite a bit. Some are simple adaptations of natural branch-like forms, such as pieces of bark. Most others are carved from a single block of wood, and appear cylindrical in form. These stools are often carved with a human or animal figure which supports the seat surface. In some instances, the stool may be assembled from several parts. Those stools with carved figures are favored by individuals for whom the carved figure reflects their position of power within the community. Those carvers whose artistry and skill create the finest work are continually sought after to create stools for those that can afford their services, and in all rural regions, there persists a demand for everyday household objects made in the traditional manner.
Carved head and neck rests are also traditional. They are used to raise the head off the ground while sleeping in order to protect women's hairdos which are elaborate and may take up to a whole day to create. Sometimes the head rests may be used for seating as well.
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