African Patinated Bronze Caryatid Stool, Lupona

Likely second half 20th century, likely West African or Luba or Hemba peoples, the kneeling female figure supporting a seat with spiraled bosses.

17 x 12 x 10 in.

From the Estate of the late Francine Pilloff, Chapel Hill, North Carolina

The female figure represents an ancestral legitimacy and the spiritual foundation of Luba kingship, Luba kings and chiefs accede to power and acquire the appropriate symbols of office. The main function of the stool was not to serve as a seat, but rather as a receptacle for the chief's spirit.

Good estate condition, with areas of rubbing to the patina and casting anomalies in the making.