Three sweeping curved legs with upright stilts support the seat of this Gurage chair, which, over time, has developed a rippled surface. Inserted into the centre of the seat is a single brass tack. When sat upon, the high-back chair comfortably supports a slightly reclining posture.
High-backed wooden chairs figure prominently in the installation of chiefs among the Gurage and related groups in southern Ethiopia -serving as symbols of rank and entitlement during meetings by the council of elders.
Ex Private Collection, UK
Estimated Period: Second Half of 19th Century
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