Vintage Ashanti Stool; Traditional Ghanaian stool

This listing was posted on Americanlisted.

Vintage Ashanti Stool; Traditional Ghanaian stool

Location:

Commerce Township, MI

Description:

The traditional Ghanaian (Ashanti) stool is a carved wooden stool common in sub-Saharan West Africa, and especially common in Ghana.Among the Akan it is used as a household object, it is used in rites of passage, and is considered sacred. These stools are used as a symbol of chieftaincy and are seen as a symbol of royalty, custom and tradition. Also known as asesedwa, they are believed to have religious importance. They are carved into different sizes, shape and design to communicate a specific message of authority. (Above information is from Wikipedia). These stools were thought to contain the soul of its owner and, when not in use, it was put on its side to stop evil spirits from sitting on it. Ashanti Stools were carved from a single piece of wood, with different designs and meanings. They were often given as wedding gifts and passed from father to son.This particular stool is a beautiful, rich reddish brown color and is absolutely stunning in person. I believe that is from the early to mid 1900s. It measures about 21” long, 15.5” tall and 9.5” deep. I have 2 of these if you are looking for more than one. Please feel free to ask for pictures.It is still gorgeous after all of these years but does show a few signs of age including scratches and dings. There is a small crack on the base (shown in the last picture) but I believe that it was part of the wood originally and does not affect the integrity of the stool. Please review the listing photos and video to make your own assessment of the Items condition before purchasing.****This is from my parent’s Vermont home built in the late 18th century and is vintage, used in another era and will show signs of wear appropriate to its age. I will do my best to describe any flaws or defects.****

Category:

Antiques

Color:

Brown

Posted:

January 20 on Americanlisted