Headrest

19th–20th century
Not on view
The nomadic lifestyle of the pastoralist Turkana peoples of northwestern Kenya and their custom of wearing elaborate coiffures made the use of light, portable headrests a necessity. Supported by two slender legs and decorated by tightly interwoven leather strings, this simple headrest may have belonged to a young man. Indeed, there is evidence that different styles of headrests and degrees of elaboration reflect the age and status of their owners.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Headrest
  • Date: 19th–20th century
  • Geography: Kenya
  • Culture: Turkana or Potok peoples
  • Medium: Wood, leather twine
  • Dimensions: H. 12 5/8 x W. 6 in. (32.1 x 15.2 cm)
  • Classification: Wood-Furniture
  • Credit Line: The Bryce Holcombe Collection of African Decorative Art, Bequest of Bryce Holcombe, 1984
  • Object Number: 1986.478.11
  • Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing

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