Stools in Africa

In general, the symbol of authority of a traditional ruler is the stool. It is the principal symbol of a chief’s political power and authority. Several kingdoms and chiefdoms in Africa had and still have traditions of using stools in place of chairs as thrones.

The stool is used as a symbol of chieftaincy in special and private occasions, and is seen as a symbol of royalty, custom and tradition. Queen mothers may be seen in public sitting on the traditional stool as a seat of authority, communicating messages about the nature of leadership.

Somewhere around now have to introduce the role of the stool creator, artist, wishing to gain acknowledgement of the particular leader, or the leader may desire a gift of acknowledgment from the artist. Either way the piece was to further both notoriety and careers. Meaning that the stool artist