Boraatii Stool/End Table, 2023
JOMO TARIKU
Boraatii Stool/End Table, 2023
Baltic birch plywood
15-18 x 17.4 x 11.5 in
Jomo Tariku’s Boraatii Stool pays homage to the traditional Oromo herdsmen headrest used for preserving elaborate hairstyles while reclining. Boraartii stools are traditional pieces of furniture used by the Borana people, a semi-nomadic ethnic group found primarily in southern Ethiopia and northern Kenya. The stool, sometimes referred to as a headrest or seat, holds significant cultural importance in Borana society and is known for its dual function: as a seat during daily activities and as a headrest during rest or sleep. The Boraatii stool is more than just a functional item; it is often carried as a personal accessory, symbolizing their identity, status, and practicality in a nomadic lifestyle. It is also part of the nomadic tradition where objects must be lightweight and easy to transport, as the Borana people are frequently on the move with their livestock.
“I aim to cultivate a lifelong appreciation for elevated modern African design, and to inspire a deeper and fuller connection to the continent. I weave the continent’s nature, art, and history within each piece I produce. Every design tells a unique story, with no detail overlooked or undervalued.” —Jomo Tariku
