Vintage Ethiopian Headrest - 23.1

A genuine southern Ethiopian headrest — functional art with real history

Carved entirely by hand from dark indigenous wood, this headrest carries the marks of a working life. As much a sculptural object as a piece of history, it adds depth and soul to a styled interior.

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: 17cm H x 15cm W x 12cm D (each piece varies slightly)

Styling: Display it on a shelf, mantel or plinth, or group several together for a gallery-like arrangement of forms.