Last month we posted Senufo stools, and this month we wanted to mention another African piece we love: the king's stool from the Bamileke tribe in Cameroon. This example is from an apartment designed by Jamie Drake (photo by Wouter Vandertol). Click below for more info.
Like Senufo stools, these are carved from a single tree trunk, but they're distinguished by their round shape and crisscross pattern. Most of the ones we've seen have a dark stain (which is sometimes achieved with shoe polish).
They're often referred to as "king's stools" because the most intricate ones were used as seats for tribal chiefs. Depending on the size of the tree trunk, stools can be small (the size of side tables) or large (the size of a coffee table).
Since they're handmade, sizes and prices vary. This piece is about 18 inches high by 23 inches in diameter, and it's $650 at Sueno Studio. Thanks to reader luvdecor for tipping us off to this source for African stools!
Top Image via Drake Design Associates.
© 2009 Apartment Therapy
Love the stool....but really love the rug. Anyone have any specs on the carpet in the picture?
view hbmorty's profile
the stool is alright, but i want that chair! want, want!
view munchkinchop's profile
munchkinchop - that was my thought exactly!
view The Graduate's profile
I WANT THAT CHAIR. Also a sofa that matches. NOW.
view kuroneko's profile
i have that same stool for sale at http://stores.ebay.com/greybreaks
view greybreaks's profile
does anyone have any sources as to where to get bamileke stool?
view coachleader's profile