A Fine and Rare Ngombe Semi-Reclining Royal Chair, Kuba Peoples, D. R. Congo.

H: 17 inches, W:16 inches, L: 45 inches

Material: Wood, Brass

The population of the Kuba ethnic group is about 260,000. Their art form is one of the most highly developed of all African traditions. Among the best known of Kuba art forms are royal portrait figures, and royal Helmet masks. Objects like stools, chairs, and thrones were usually special, and reserved for royalties. In some cases the use of stools and chairs were also privilege of the oldest person in the community. This imposing and rare semi-reclining chair shown here, dominatd by stacks of brass all around it suggest that the chair belonged to a distinguished individual, or to a chief. Among the art works of the Kuba, the chief's chair is regarded as a symbol of power.