man carving chair, Claude D. Brown

Exhibition Label: “Conversation I: Place,” Oct-2007, Emily Stamey
E4296.u and E4296.ag
Although we do not know the name of the artist who carved the two thrones behind you, we do have pictures of him. If you look closely, you will be able to match some of the carved pieces in the photographs with those in the larger throne. These photographs were taken by Claude Brown, a University of Kansas graduate who worked as an engineer associated with the diamond trade in northern Angola from 1908 until 1915. While in Angola, Brown purchased many cultural objects that he then gave to the University.

In an article about these thrones, art historian Reinhild Kauenhoven-Janzen described the carved elements on the small, backless throne as follows:

“The bird as a protector of hunting and the cikuvu drum as a symbol of order guarantee the basic needs of social existence, material and social survival. The images of eating, drinking, and conversation refer to “shared values,” such as generosity, hospitality, and comradeship, on which communal life depends.”
- Reinhild Kauenhoven-Janzen

Reinhild Kauenhoven-Janzen, “Chokwe Thrones,” African Arts, 14:3 (May, 1981): 72