More about Headrests
Headrests are very varied throughout Africa. The oldest surving examples come from ancient Egypt, and most commonly consisted of three main parts: the base (generally oblong), a vertical part that acts as support, and a top part. These were often found in tombs, as the headrest often was buried along with its owner. |
(17) Wooden headrest from Ethiopia |
(20) Turkana headrest, Kenya
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The most common and simply designed headrests come from the societies of East Africa, mainly from the semi-nomadic peoples of Uganda, Kenya and Somalia. Often, they are made straight from the forked branch of a tree that already has the right shape to provide two or three legs and a supporting surface. Often carried on the arm or in the hand by means of a leather thong means, that their owners are warriors. The more elaborate the headrest is, the higher the seniority is of its owner. The simpler variety being for youg men. A carver can be commissioned to create a headrest , but any man can make his own. Often to be found on the headrests from these nomadic tribes, is a sticky substance on the side and the surface. This is most likely the fat from a goat's hide that, which is not only smelly but sticky and will protect the owner of the headrest when sleeping by river beds, lake shores or anywhere in the bush, from scorpions and other insects crawling into their ears when sleeping. The fat also preserves the wood. When not required for sleeping, they may just as easily provide an impromptu stool. |
The Luba in Central Africa have some of the most elaborate carved headrests , often showing beautiful and elegant hairstyles. The Luba people have a great personal attachment to their headrests which they consider the seat of dreams. Luba consider dreams to be prophetic and dreams foretell important events, provide warnings and communicate messages from another world. So, when you come to Africa, find yourself a headrest and - maybe? - your dreams will come true! |
(19) Carved wooden headrest |
