Jomo Tariku, Nyala Chair, 2017-19, this example 2021. American walnut; 30 × 24 × 20 3/4 in. Made by David Bohnhoff, Richmond, Virginia. Denver Art Museum: Funds from Gayle and Gary Landis, 2021.392. © Jomo Tariku

height: 30 in, 76.2 cm; width: 24 in, 60.96 cm; depth: 20 3/4 in, 52.705 cm

Copy #4 of walnut version (new build)

Architecture and Design

Architecture and Design

This object is currently on view

This chair is inspired by the mountain nyala, a rare and large antelope found exclusively in the Bale Mountains of Ethiopia. Its armrests and legs echo the creature’s distinctive horns and sturdy hind legs. The mountain nyala is endangered due to hunting and habitat destruction. Raising awareness of their plight, Jomo Tariku limited production of the chair to 1,000, the known population of mountain nyala at the time.

Purchased from the Artist by the Denver Art Museum, 2021.

• “By Design: Stories and Ideas Behind Objects (2nd Rotation)” — Denver Art Museum, 2/5/2024 – 5/9/2025
• “By Design: Stories and Ideas Behind Objects (3rd Rotation)” — Denver Art Museum, 5/10/2025