ngunja (carved chair), unrecorded Chokwe artist

Artwork Overview

ngunja (carved chair), 1908–1914
Material/technique: carving; wood; skin

The Chokwe of northeastern Angola are noted for their adornment of chairs, stools, headrests, combs, and other objects of daily use. The European form of these chairs was likely introduced to the Chokwe by Portuguese traders in the 18th century. Most of the images carved on them, however, depict traditional Chokwe customs and beliefs.

Explore our entire collection