West African Tribal Folding Safari Armchairs, 19th Century
A pair of rare late 19th century West African hybrid folding armchairs, likely commissioned by colonial traders from tribal artisans adapting European camp chair frame designs for safari travelers.
The chairs feature scissor-folding X-bases with pinned joints offering two positions—one upright for dining use, one reclined to lounge position typical of traditional African stargazer chairs—shaped crest rails with ball finials, and plank seats incised with geometric tribal motifs—symmetrical linear triangles flanked by dotted arcs and clustered dots—all executed over weathered hardwood surfaces displaying rich patina. Simple iron pivot hardware and pegged mortise joinery throughout.
21 ½ x 30 x 33 ½ inches; seat height 15 inches
Fair overall with age-appropriate wear from camp service including significant wobble to bases. Folding mechanism functional with dual-position recline; weathered surface, cracks and edge wear.
