Chokwe Throne Chair Set: Origin Congo (Zaire)-Angola, Zambia The Chokwe are well known for art objects produced to celebrate and validate the royal court. These objects include ornately carved stools and chairs used as thrones representing a royal lineage. Chief's throne with 4 chair-legs and backrest, richly carved. The Chokwe (Angola and DR Congo) After Portuguese colonization Chokwe developed unique style for their chief?s chairs. These ?thrones? are used in ceremonial huts in the main village of the chief. Smaller versions of them (or stools) are brought along when the chief visits other villages in his territory. Spiritually, the Chokwe recognize Kalunga, the god of creation and supreme power, and a series of nature and ancestral spirits (mahamba). Chokwe believe neglecting these spirits is sure to result in personal or collective misfortune. Evil spirits may also be activated by sorcerers (wanga) and must be counteracted to regain health. To accomplish this individuals consult with a diviner (nganga), who attempts to uncover the source of the patient's problem. Historically, the Chokwe kingdom grew wealthy & expansive, eventually overtaking the Lunda states that had held sway over them for so long however, the effects of over expansion, disease, and colonialism resulted in the fragmentation of Chokwe authority. Chief's throne with 4 chair-legs and backrest, richly carved. The Chokwe (Angola and DR Congo) After Portuguese colonization Chokwe developed unique style for their chief?s chairs. These ?thrones? are used in ceremonial huts in the main village of the chief. Smaller versions of them (or stools) are brought along when the chief visits other villages in his territory. (Part of a Private Collection from the Tillman Estate)

Africa
33.00x16.00x14.00




wood & hide