Wooden Ethiopian headrest collected in the field, used to elevate and protect elaborate hairstyles during the night. The saddle is often a dark color owing to the butter often used best to soften women's hair. This museum-grade piece is made of soft endemic wood, has a dark brown patina on its base and a lighter tint on the saddle. It shows much use over time. A piece of string made of old cotton garments is still attached and used to hang valuable possessions on hut walls, off the ground to protect from dust, termites and rodents.
They are important objects and often carried around and used to sit on during the day, (mostly by men). Circa 1940.
This item is part of my private collection, acquired mid-2006 in Eastern Ethiopia.
Dimensions are: H 5 7/8" X W 5 3/8" X D 2 3/4"
Product code: Ethiopian Headrest Tribal best Wooden Pillow Decor