This low table or stool, finely carved from a single piece of dense, heavy brown wood, features four supports depicting female figures.
The figures' raised arms support the flat circular top, which has been beautifully decorated with four finely etched representations of animals - including, for example, an elephant, a gazelle and a rhinoceros - and cross-shaped circle-and-dot decorations. Each of the supporting female figures have inserted bone eyes.
It is likely that this piece was produced for the early colonial market, and possibly dates back as far as the late 19th Century. The exact origin is unknown but its likely to derive from either Zimbabwe or, more widely, Southern Africa.
Estimated Period: Early 20th Century (Or Before)
Ex Private Collection, UK
In good overall condition.
Height: 47cm
Width: 46cm
Depth: 46cm
(Click on images to enlarge)
