This is a fine headrest from the Dinka and agro-pastoralist tribe in southern Sudan, they neighbour the Didinga, Mandari, and Lotuku. Headrests from this region were carved from blocks of wood into a designed form. The variations on the headrests are plentiful as their uses, they differ in accordance with the age, gender, wealth and status of the user. Such headrests were inspired by the aesthetics of cattle, the shape of the headrest is suggestive of the elegant horns of a cow. The owner was a man of power. Cattle is largely depended on in this region for its provision of food and milk, furthermore embracing status and prestige.
This headrest was curved from a solid heavy piece of wood, the platform is slightly curved and attached to a stable base. The platform of this headrest serves as a stool or headrest. The engraving seems like it was added at a later date. It shows traces of frequent usage, has a wonderful brown patina and it shows clear signs of age.
- Material: Hardwood
- Condition: Good
- Age:approx 50-60yrs
- Origin: Sudan
- SKU: LHRT-078
- Weight: 1.5 kg
- Dimensions: 44 x 16 x 10.5 cm