Headrest carved from a single piece of wood. The upper surface is smooth, and curves upwards to points on either side. There are six legs in a line, one long leg at either end, and four comb-like legs at centre, which attach to an oval base. There are zigzag and line designs carved all over, with each design composed of many fine lines.

• History Of Use

  Headrests, also called neck rests. Used when sleeping or resting; meant to support the head at the junction of the neck and head when lying down. Usually a personal object; they are portable and may also be used as a stool. In some societies, headrests were thought to channel ancestral communications through dreams.

• Narrative

  From the collection of Dr. Arap Diop. Tchuemegne acquired headrests 3420/70-78 from Diop, in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.

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• Type of Item headrest
• Culture Kambata
• Material wood
• Measurements height 20.0 cm, width 18.5 cm, depth 6.5 cm (overall)

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• Previous Owner Richard Tchuemegne
• Received from Richard Tchuemegne, Michael O'Brian Family Foundation, Museum of Anthropology Exhibitions Budget

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• Made in Ethiopia

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• Ownership Date before February 5, 2020
• Acquisition Date on February 5, 2020

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• Condition good
• Accession Number 3420/0074