Vintage Boni Ethiopian Headrest - 24.6

A hand-carved vintage Boni headrest from southern Ethiopia

Each headrest is hand-carved from a single piece of timber, no two ever quite alike. Compact yet full of presence, it makes a striking sculptural accent on a shelf, plinth or stack of books.

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: 18cm H x 16cm W x 7cm D (each piece varies slightly)

Styling: Pairs effortlessly with greenery, natural textures and pared-back interiors — a grounding, organic accent.