Ulimbi Bia (2000-159-1)

3D Model

Prestige stools represent the soul of the community, and thus are often constructed from a culturally significant species of soft, white wood known as osese. This specific wood is chosen for to its attributed innate supernatural abilities, reinforcing one of the stool’s functions as a sacred object in Asante nations. Furthermore, within Akan iconography, each given motif is associated with a particular proverb, or traditional saying, thus closely linking the verbal and visual arts of Akan culture. The leopard is a common motif in Akan artwork, as it symbolizes the strength, courage, and wisdom of the respective chief or king. Another prominent feature of this leopard prestige stool is the geometric motif displayed on the vertical supports directly above the leopard’s body, evoking Kente, a traditional textile manufactured in Ghana that and represents national heritage.

Research Attribution: Nicholas Federico, Villanova University, with supervision from Dr. Hilary Whitham Sánchez