An ancient and beautiful classic monoxyl kisumbi stool, consisting of two convex spheres connected by four legs, here decorated with engraved lines. Kisumbi stools have "enormous symbolic significance in the Lega Bwami association", says Daniel Biebuyck. It is the symbol of the great initiate's knowledge and vigilance. The central protuberance of the sphere evokes the navel, birth, while the two spheres joined by four feet imply a sophisticated convention in the conception of clan groups; a clan being made up of four patrilineal lineages. The stools are acquired at the yananio level of initiation during an elaborate cycle of interpretations, and during the dances and songs relating to their interpretation, the stools are brandished by the leaders warning that they may under no circumstances be used in an act of violence, but as a sign of hospitality. Men and women of the appropriate rank may sit on the stool at any time. When bami travel to attend rites, they are always accompanied by their stool. They are kept for life, and on the death of its owner, the stool is passed on to the person (usually a close relative) expected to replace the deceased initiate within the Bwami. See: on kisumbi stools p. 222 to 230 in Lega Éthique et Beauté au coeur de l'Afrique, Daniel Biebuyck, 2002 Lega, Democratic Republic of the Congo 19th century Wood, age cracks, significant visible age wear, visible accidents and age erosion on one of the legs, significant age oxidation of the wood, superb age patina. H. 24 cm. Provenance: Acquired between 1956 and 1957 in Babene (Pangi territory) by Mr. V., territorial administrator in Maniema between 1952 and 1959.