Prestige Stool (Kipona)
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.This prestige stool and the bowl-bearer also on view in the exhibition were acquired by the Belgian colonial officer Joseph Van den Boogaerde in the Kongolo territory of Eastern Congo between 1913 and 1916. How Charles Vignier came across them remains a mystery, but by 1919 he was in possession of several works from this source and sent them to the De Zayas Gallery.
This insignia of leadership is a masterpiece of Luba art. Striking for its perfectly balanced proportions and exactingly carved features, its creator is only known to us as the Warua Master. Ten works have been attributed to this 18th century artist, including stools, bow stands, and power figures.
This insignia of leadership is a masterpiece of Luba art. Striking for its perfectly balanced proportions and exactingly carved features, its creator is only known to us as the Warua Master. Ten works have been attributed to this 18th century artist, including stools, bow stands, and power figures.
Artwork Details
- Title: Prestige Stool (Kipona)
- Date: late 18th - early 19th century
- Geography: Democratic Republic of the Congo, Luvua Valley Region
- Culture: Luba peoples, identified as the Master of the Warua or the Kunda
- Medium: Wood, glass beads
- Dimensions: H. x W. x D.: 16 11/16 x 9 1/8 x 8 7/16 in. (42.4 x 23.2 x 21.4 cm)
- Classification: Wood
- Credit Line: The University of Pennsylvania Museum, Philadelphia
- Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing