Vintage Ethiopian Headrest - 23.3

A hand-carved vintage headrest from the peoples of southern Ethiopia

A solid, hand-worked piece in richly grained dark wood, shaped for both function and form. Its sculptural silhouette and aged surface make it a quietly compelling display object.

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, so yours will have its own grain, profile and markings.

Size: 18cm H x 15cm W x 15cm D (each piece varies slightly)

Styling: Equally at home on a coffee-table stack, a styled console or among a collection of objets — a real conversation piece.