Wooden neckrest – attributed to Afar – Ethiopia / Horn of Africa – Wood (No reserve price)

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Current bid
€ 76
No reserve price
Dimitri André
Expert
Selected by Dimitri André

Holds a postgraduate degree in African studies and 15 years experience in African art.

Estimate  € 150 - € 200
PT
€76
DE
€73
BE
€66

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Wooden neckrest attributed to the Afar of Ethiopia in the Horn of Africa, with provenance collected in situ by the present owner.

AI-assisted summary

Description from the seller

Wooden neckrest – attributed to Afar – Ethiopia / Horn of Africa – Wood

Details
Origin: Ethiopia / Horn of Africa
People: attributed to the Afar
Type: Neckrest / headrest
Material: Wood
Dimensions:
- Height: 13.5 cm
- Base diameter: approx. 12.5 cm
- Upper support: approx. 12.5 x 9.5 cm
Period: mid-20th century or earlier
Provenance: Collected in situ by the present owner

Description
A fine wooden neckrest, attributed to the Afar people of the Horn of Africa.

Neckrests of this type were used as personal supports during rest or sleep, helping to protect the head and hair while keeping the neck slightly raised. They are intimate utilitarian objects, often carried and used over long periods, and their surfaces frequently develop a deep handling patina.

This example is especially appealing for the balance of its construction. The circular base gives the object a stable and harmonious presence, while the upper support has a softly oval form, gently curved to receive the neck. The vertical supports are well proportioned, giving the piece a clear architectural quality.

The wood is light in weight but has developed a rich, warm brown patina from age and handling. The surface shows beautiful wear, with softened edges, small marks and tonal variations that enhance the sculptural character of the object.

A particularly attractive neckrest, appreciated for its elegant proportions, balanced construction, fine old patina and strong ethnographic presence.

Condition
Good condition overall, with wear, abrasions, scratches, small marks, minor losses and surface irregularities consistent with age and use.
Old patina of handling.
The object stands by itself.
Please refer to the photographs.

Included
The neckrest only.
No stand included.

Seller's Story

For more than 30 years, I have collected African art with a focus on authenticity, symbolism, and refined craftsmanship. Graduated as an engineer from École Centrale de Paris, I combine the rigor of my technical background with a lifelong passion for artistic expression and cultural heritage. Founder of AS’ART (dedicated to contemporary handmade design) and Artifacts Gallery (devoted to ancient tribal art and ethnographic objects), I bring together two worlds: the vitality of today’s artisans and the timeless heritage of Africa’s past. Every piece I present is chosen for its artistic quality, cultural significance, and emotional power.

Wooden neckrest – attributed to Afar – Ethiopia / Horn of Africa – Wood

Details
Origin: Ethiopia / Horn of Africa
People: attributed to the Afar
Type: Neckrest / headrest
Material: Wood
Dimensions:
- Height: 13.5 cm
- Base diameter: approx. 12.5 cm
- Upper support: approx. 12.5 x 9.5 cm
Period: mid-20th century or earlier
Provenance: Collected in situ by the present owner

Description
A fine wooden neckrest, attributed to the Afar people of the Horn of Africa.

Neckrests of this type were used as personal supports during rest or sleep, helping to protect the head and hair while keeping the neck slightly raised. They are intimate utilitarian objects, often carried and used over long periods, and their surfaces frequently develop a deep handling patina.

This example is especially appealing for the balance of its construction. The circular base gives the object a stable and harmonious presence, while the upper support has a softly oval form, gently curved to receive the neck. The vertical supports are well proportioned, giving the piece a clear architectural quality.

The wood is light in weight but has developed a rich, warm brown patina from age and handling. The surface shows beautiful wear, with softened edges, small marks and tonal variations that enhance the sculptural character of the object.

A particularly attractive neckrest, appreciated for its elegant proportions, balanced construction, fine old patina and strong ethnographic presence.

Condition
Good condition overall, with wear, abrasions, scratches, small marks, minor losses and surface irregularities consistent with age and use.
Old patina of handling.
The object stands by itself.
Please refer to the photographs.

Included
The neckrest only.
No stand included.

Seller's Story

For more than 30 years, I have collected African art with a focus on authenticity, symbolism, and refined craftsmanship. Graduated as an engineer from École Centrale de Paris, I combine the rigor of my technical background with a lifelong passion for artistic expression and cultural heritage. Founder of AS’ART (dedicated to contemporary handmade design) and Artifacts Gallery (devoted to ancient tribal art and ethnographic objects), I bring together two worlds: the vitality of today’s artisans and the timeless heritage of Africa’s past. Every piece I present is chosen for its artistic quality, cultural significance, and emotional power.

Details

Sold with stand
No
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Wooden neckrest – attributed to Afar – Ethiopia / Horn of Africa – Wood
Authenticity
Original/official
FranceVerified
605
Objects sold
100%
protop

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