Ashanti Stool 138.1

A hand-carved Ashanti stool from Ghana, carved from a single piece of wood with the distinctive crescent-shaped seat. Designs like these were traditionally reserved for chiefs and important figures, and carry deep cultural meaning for the Akan people. The Golden Stool is the sacred symbol of the Ashanti nation, believed to hold the sunsum — the soul — of the Ashanti people. A well-carved stool is far more than a seat: among the Akan, when a daughter reaches puberty her father traditionally gives her a stool, which becomes tied to her own soul and identity. Each is carved from a single piece of wood rather than nailed together, and starts out as pale wood that deepens over time to a burnished, well-worn hue. No two are alike. A striking sculptural piece that works as a side table, plant stand or display object. Size: approx. 42cm L × 23cm W × 27cm H.