Throne

19th century; Cameroon, Bamenda; Wood, beads; height 47 cm (18 1/2 in.); Founders Society Purchase, Eleanor Clay Ford Fund for African Art; 79.18

African beadwork is outstanding for its frequent use on large three-dimensional objects. Since beads were valuable objects imported from Europe, a lavish beaded throne like this was literally "fit for a king." The leopard depicted on this throne was considered "lord of bush" and was traditionally equated in African symbolism with the king, lord of his people.

JPEG, 76K