Yoruba Beaded Ceremony Chair, from Nigeria. Circa 1960.

Armchair in glass beads with a geometric decoration. The beads are sewn onto the fabric of the covered armchairs, by hand. Each color symbolizes a god. The motifs are characterized by plant and animal representations. The Yoruba ethnic group believes that pearls strengthen spiritual powers. Kings, priests and diviners can communicate with gods and ancestors. They are the ones who have the privilege of owning pearls. A decorative technique developed since the end of the 19th century.