Skip to main content

Chair

Asante

Artwork Details

Chair
20th century
Asante
wood, leather and metal tacks
27 5/16 in x 15 5/8 in x 17 11/16 in (69.37 cm x 39.69 cm x 44.93 cm)
Gift of Dr. James and Vivian Curtis
1997/1.310

Description

Subject Matter:

Stools are one of the most important types of objects in Asante culture, from the Golden Stool that holds the spirit of the Asante nation to stools used everyday, European-inspired chairs were also used in the last century. This chair, called asipim, is one of three kinds of chair used by rulers and is the most common type. Often kept in the palaces of senior chiefs, they were brought out when men gathered to discuss important matters. This seems to be their only function, as asipim chairs are not connected to any ceremonies or rituals.  When not in use, they are tilted against a wall, similar to how stools are usually stored at an angle.

References Cited: 
MacLeod, Malcolm D. 1981. The Asante. London: British Museum Publications Ltd. 

Physical Description:

This wooden chair has a square, leather covered seat and four legs. The back of the chair also has a leather covering. Much of the chair is decorated with metal tacks.

Usage Rights:

If you are interested in using an image for a publication, please visit https://umma.umich.edu/request-image/ for more information and to fill out the online Image Rights and Reproductions Request Form.