This is a T-shaped headrest from the Karamajong, an ethnic group of agro-pastoral herders living mainly in north-eastern Uganda. Headrests appear like simple pieces of craftmanship but they are of aesthetic value. They possess significance value and they have artistic status, they mean more than just mere objects. These pillow-like objects are some of the most distinctive East African artifacts. Headrests symbolized high social status or magical power such as the gift of foretelling. Headrests are also traditionally believed to protect elaborated headdresses, headrests are no longer a feature of modern life in this region.
This particular headrest was the property of a highly ranked individual. It can only be used by a man from the elite class. Its design is similar to those of Pokot and Turkana as a result of intermingling. This headrest has a conical base, a single column, and a flat upper surface. It’s decorated with an elegant leather handle and a burnished wonderful patina. It is old with visible signs of old age and usage.
- Material: Wood and leather
- Condition: Good
- Age:approx 50-60yrs
- Origin: Uganda
- SKU: LHRT-100
- Weight: 0.2 kg
- Dimensions: 2.7 x 16 x 3.5 cm