Cook Islands Chief's Stool

Chief’s Stool, late 19th century
Cook Islands, Polynesia
Wood; 5.5 x 8.25 x 18.18 in.
Bowers Museum purchase courtesy of the Pick Laudati Fund
2008.2.1 With a slightly upturned bench and robust sweeping legs, this 19th century chief's stool has the lines of a contemporary work of art. Carved from a single piece of wood it is a very fine example of its kind. Originally collected in 1910 from the Cook Islands the stool, reserved for only someone highly esteemed and of great status, is a testament to the superb craftsmanship and artistic accomplishments of Polynesian culture. This stool was collected at a pivotal moment in the island’s history when indigenous customs, including art making traditions, had succumbed to the effects of Western colonization. Early Cook Islands culture maintained a strict hierarchy between men, chiefs, priests and gods. The ceremonial and utilitarian objects used by each were also distinct in function and aesthetics. Objects used by higher ranking individuals were strong, long lasting and meant to be passed down through generations. Power and aesthetics were intrinsically tied together and alive within objects of chiefly and ritual status; master artists controlled this aesthetic power called manu as they created each work of art. The most common Cook Islands objects found in collections today include clubs, weapons and staffs, ceremonial adzes and rare examples of carved male figures. This stool, a recent acquisition to the collection, is currently featured in the Museum’s front lobby. All images and text under copyright. Please contact Collection Department for permission to use.