Ashanti Wood Stool, Ghana

A seat that curves like a shallow canoe, and a lattice at its center.

Ashanti carvers of Ghana, West Africa, made this stool in wood in the 20th century. Stools are closely associated with identity and status among the Ashanti, and are often treated as personal rather than shared objects. The seat dips in a smooth saddle, with small incised dashes near each end. Three supports rise from a rectangular base, the middle one pierced with a diamond lattice. The wood has darkened to warm honey brown, with a dry, handled sheen.

About 24 inches wide and 16 high. Low, calm, and quietly sculptural beside a sofa.