This Tongo stool from Zimbabwe has a simple design with a flat, round seat and four thick, vertical legs that taper slightly at the bottom. The legs curve outward, giving the stool a stable structure. The wood is smooth, with visible carving marks showing it was hand-carved.
 
Tongo stools were traditionally used by the Shona people of Zimbabwe, often in ceremonial settings. They were typically used by elders, chiefs, or leaders during important gatherings, symbolizing authority and status. The stools also had a role in spiritual rituals, connecting the physical world to the spiritual realm.
 
The Shona people are known for their strong artistic traditions, including sculpture, pottery, and beadwork. Tongo stools are a part of this heritage, reflecting the Shona’s respect for leaders, ancestors, and the natural world. They are functional but also hold cultural and symbolic significance within the community.