Neckrests, such as the one on offer, were made to protect the elaborate coiffures of the owners as they slept.
This headrest has been beautifully carved, with bold geometric shapes and the creative use of pokerwork to accent the two side lugs, the middle ring in the main support and the inverted triangle on the front of the figure-eight shaped base.
Without specific collection data, it is always hard to identify exactly where these headrests are from. This headrest has strong Shona elements as well as Tsonga-Shangaan elements. Such cross-cultural influences are typical in a region where there were significant migrations.
In good condition. Small but stable split on top support. |
