Early 20th Century Wood Headrest Ethiopia MATTER COLLECTION

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Description

Ethiopian headrests come in various forms. They range from simple to elaborately carved artifacts. They have abstract shapes, nice lines, … Read more Ethiopian headrests come in various forms. They range from simple to elaborately carved artifacts. They have abstract shapes, nice lines, and are sometimes decorated with sophisticated geometric patterns. Their styles are similar to those found among the other nomadic people of Uganda and Kenya, particularly among the Dinka, Maasai, Karamajong, Rendille, Turkana, and Pokot. Ethiopian headrests mostly come from people such as the Somali, Gurage, Kambatta, Sidamo, Oromo, and Arussi. Among these people, headrests and stools play a vital role among men. These objects are carefully carved and carried by men everywhere they go. Headrests are used as pillows to help someone have good sleep. They are also used as a comfort to help protect the ceremonial coiffure. On some occasions, headrests are used as a stool. As a personal object, the headrest has become part of the individual. Usually, when a person dies, he is buried with his headrest. Sometimes the headrest is passed on to his heir, who would treat it with respect because this wooden piece embodies the deceased person's spirit.
Provenance: Matter Collection
From the collection of Margie and Phil Matter. Margie lived in South Africa, and later she and her husband Phil opened a gallery in Tucson. Everything in this collection was in their home for more than thirty years. Africa Direct recently bought the collection; at 95, Margie wants to share the things she has loved so much.








Height (In): 6.0Width (In): 6.5Depth (In): 5.0
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