Vintage Ethiopian Headrest - 146.2

A vintage hand-carved headrest from southern Ethiopia

A genuine, one-of-a-kind piece carved from a single block of dark wood, with the natural marks and patina of age and everyday use.

The story behind it

Headrests like this are traditionally used across communities in southern Ethiopia to support the head in sleep without disturbing elaborate hairstyles — coiffures that can signal a person's age, gender and status, and are often adorned with ornaments of spiritual significance. Beyond everyday use, the headrest also carries ceremonial importance, including a role in marriage rituals.

Authentic & unique

As a vintage, hand-made object, natural marks, scratches and fine cracks in the wood are to be expected — they are part of its history and add to its character. No two are alike.

Size: 16cm H x 9cm W x 17cm L (each piece varies slightly)

Styling: Beautiful as a standalone sculptural object, or layered among books, ceramics and plants for a collected, biophilic look.