Cameroonian Stool with Figural Motif

A standing figure holds up the seat, arms raised, and doesn’t complain.

Carvers in the Grasslands of Cameroon, Central Africa, made this stool with a figural motif in wood in the 20th century. Figures supporting seats are commonly associated with chiefly authority in the region. Here a small standing figure with raised arms and a round, expressive face holds the seat, while other carved figures stand behind in the shadows. The seat itself has a dark band around its edge and the wood is a rich brown with pale wear.

About 12 inches tall and 10 wide. A small person with a large job, and a good sense of posture.