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**Large Hand‑Carved Senufo Stool (Gbon)
Senufo People, Ivory Coast — West Africa**
This large, hand‑carved Senufo gbon stool represents one of the most iconic forms of traditional West African folk art. Crafted by the Senufo people of Ivory Coast, Mali, and Burkina Faso, these stools are celebrated for their sculptural simplicity, organic elegance, and cultural significance.
Key Features
Single‑Block Construction: Expertly carved from one solid piece of dense indigenous hardwood—often Iroko—ensuring durability, authenticity, and a substantial presence.
Classic Gbon Design: Features the signature smooth, concave saddle‑shaped seat supported by four thick, tapered cylindrical legs, a hallmark of traditional Senufo craftsmanship.
Cultural Origin: Historically used as personal seating by Senufo elders and community members for everyday and ceremonial purposes. Today, they are highly sought after as sculptural décor, collectible artifacts, and functional accent furniture.
Unique Variations: Each stool is individually hand‑carved, resulting in distinctive grain patterns, natural patina, and age‑appropriate wear—no two pieces are ever identical.
Modern Versatility: Ideal as a side table, accent stool, plant stand, or sculptural centerpiece, seamlessly blending into contemporary, minimalist, or organic interior design.
Authentic Weight & Material: At 13.15 lbs, the density confirms genuine hardwood construction—consistent with vintage West African carvings rather than lightweight modern reproductions.
Design Practicality: A height of 19 inches aligns perfectly with standard side table dimensions, enhancing its value and usability in modern interiors.
Dimensions
Weight: 13.15 lbs
Height: 19 in
Width: 21.75 in
Depth: 13 in
This is a large, vintage Senufo stool, and pieces of this scale command higher value due to their ability to transition effortlessly from cultural artifacts to functional home furnishings.
Provenance
Acquired from the estate of a private collector in Long Island, New York.
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Our curated inventory includes sculptures, paintings, bronzes, antiques, figurines, and hand‑carved works—each selected with a discerning eye and deep appreciation for artistry, heritage, and craftsmanship. We travel the region sourcing unique finds, specializing in estate acquisitions to ensure our collection is always evolving with fresh discoveries.
Condition Note
Due to the age and handcrafted nature of these pieces, minor surface variations, wear marks, or fine hairline fractures may be present. These characteristics are consistent with authentic vintage and antique works and contribute to each item’s unique history and charm.