Mbuti Wood Bed, Democratic Republic of Congo

Low to the ground, because the forest does not reward standing around.

Mbuti people of the Ituri Forest, Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, made this bed in wood in the 20th century. Mbuti camps are commonly built from forest materials, and furnishings are kept light and practical. The top is a flat bed of closely set slender slats, held between two long side rails with a rolled lip at each end. Short legs with notched cutouts lift it off the floor, joined by a lower stretcher. The wood is dark brown with a warm, worn finish from use.

About 45 inches long and 12 inches high. Works as a bench, a low table or a very honest conversation piece.