Important Stool

49.

This stool is of the finest workmanship. The aluminium edging gives it a very modern feel, and the copper and brass inlay is really exceptional, but the thing, in my opinion, that makes this stool ‘important’ is that it is signed. The inscription, which is also done in fine wire, reads “Matungulu.1927.mabeke mabva. the bwana mukubwa.” It also has “machakos” engraved on the foot. As far as I can discern, “Machakos” is a town in Kenya, “Matungulu” is an area, “Bwana Mukubwa” means big master, and “Mabeke Mabva” is a name? As far as I know, this is a newly discovered artist. The only other master artist from the Kamba that is known for certain is Mutisya Munge, who is said to have begun the carving of figures, etc., for the colonial market. This stool has certainly been created by a master, and as is so rare in pre-war African art, we can, for once, maybe attribute a name? More research needs to be undertaken.

Aluminium, copper and brass wire over a wooden base. Excellent condition.

26cm x 29cm

Kamba, Kenya. 1927.