West African stool with figural motif

In the lush, fertile grasslands of Cameroon in West Africa, the Bamileke people believe their ancestors inhabit the earth. They respect and embrace them so religiously; ancestor worship has literally been elevated to an art form. This is understandable. How could gone really mean gone when you stand on and walk among your ancestors every day?

This carved stool is covered in thousands of glass beads and cowrie shells

This week’s New Arrival features a beaded stool from the Bamileke. Stools of this sort are typically reserved for royalty. It’s no wonder considering the workmanship and elaborate decoration. Yet, look at the figures holding the stool upright. They announce we sit on those who’ve come before, which is a lesson for all people – royalty and commoner alike.  

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