Chief's Stool (No Oanga)
ClassificationsFurnishings-Furniture-stools
Datelate 19th Century
Made AtCook Islands
MediumWood
Dimensions5 1/2 × 18 1/4 × 8 1/4 in. (14 × 46.4 × 21 cm)
Credit LineDr. James Block Pick and Dr. Rosalyn M. Laudati Fund Purchase
Object number2008.2.1
DescriptionThis object is a late 19th century Polynesian Chief's stool from the Cook Islands. The size and height of a stool indicated the social rank of its owner. Only chiefs were entitled to sit on stools, while all others would sit on the floor. Although the stools were low, by placing the sitter only a few inches off the ground the social elevation achieved by the use of the stool was substantial. Originally collected in 1910 from the Cook Islands, this stool is a testament to the superb craftsmanship and artistic accomplishments of Polynesian culture.On View
On viewCollections
20th Century
20th Century
