Cameroonian Wood Stool

The wood twists and loops as if it could not decide where to go.

This stool was carved in wood in Cameroon, Central Africa, in the 20th century. Carved stools in the region are commonly associated with prestige and are valued as sculpture as much as seating. Thick, curving ribbons of wood loop and cross between a round seat and a flat base, leaving large irregular openings. The wood is dark and glossy at the top and rougher near the base, with handling wear on the seat.

About 15 inches high and 13 wide. An organic piece, and nothing straight in sight.