Gurage Headrest

History

The headrest is an important piece of everyday art that is not only used as a place to rest one’s head but can and is also used as a seat. Often headrests have the purpose not only to rest a head on but as a means of protection for some of the elaborate hairstyles/ coiffures that many African tribes display. In many parts of central, western, and southern Africa, headrests were carved by their owners; while others were exquisitely crafted by professional carvers. These headrests often supported elaborate coiffures that were far too complex and time consuming to restyle on a daily basis. Hair was intricately braided or embellished with clay, beads, and other decorative materials. Small, wooden supports protected these styles during sleep, helping to preserve a hairstyle for weeks or even months at a time. Being of the size they are it makes the headrest very portable and hence can be taken anywhere with ease.