Vintage Ethiopian Headrest - 23.4

An authentic, one-of-a-kind Ethiopian headrest in dark hardwood

A genuine, one-of-a-kind piece carved from a single block of dark hardwood and worn to a soft patina by age and use. Equal parts sculpture and cultural artefact, it brings warmth, history and quiet drama to any space.

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

Being a genuine vintage piece, expect honest signs of age — surface marks, small cracks and a worn patina — all of which speak to its authenticity. Each one is entirely individual.

Size: 15cm H x 12cm W x 11cm D (each piece varies slightly)

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