240840 - Antique and Rare mid 20th century African Turkana headrest - Kenia.

Antique and Rare mid 20th century African Turkana headrest - Kenia.
This one is in just excellent condition and is of museum quality.
Dimensions: 15 cm high and the width at the widest point is 15 cm.
This Turkana headrest is from the mid of the 20th century and purchased in my private collection in 1999, with a certificate of authenticity.

This is a beautifully carved wooden headrest from the Turkana Tribal people of Kenya. This headrest is carved from one piece of wood. Headrests come in different shapes and forms. They have ranged from simple to an elaborately carved artifact. They have abstract shapes, beautiful lines, and somewhere are decorated with refined geometric patterns.
Their styles are similar to those found among other nomadic people of Kenya. Among these people, headrests and crutches play a vital role in men. These objects are carefully carved and worn by men everywhere they go. Headrests are used as pillows to help someone have good deep sleep. They also used as a comfort to help protect ceremonial coiffure.
In some cases the headrests are used as a stool. This headrest is a personal object and has become part of the individual. Usually, when the person has died, he is buried with his headrest. Sometimes the headrest is passed on to his successor, who would treat it with respect because this wooden piece embodies the spirit of the deceased. That would be wonderful gift or a beautiful artifact for your home.