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Dimitri André

Headrest, Gurage people, Ethiopia
Wood
13 x 17 x 17 cm, 0.5 kg
Age: 40s-50s
Collected by me in Ethiopia in the 90s
This superb headrest is typical of the Sebat-bet (seven houses) Gurage people who live in the south-central highlands of Ethiopia.
The narrow, curved lintel, which ends in two "ears", rests on a short cylindrical foot that transforms into a hollow, conical base with two storeys. The whole piece is richly decorated with scarification marks. This headrest was carved from a hardwood that has acquired a beautiful smooth dark patina over time.

Headrests from the Horn of Africa were highly personal objects used daily. Today, they survive only in a few isolated regions of the continent, particularly in the area where the borders of Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, and South Sudan converge.

Mid 20th century - Wood - Excellent condition

Headrest - Gurage - Ethiopia

African & Tribal Art

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African & Tribal Art

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Headrest - Gurage - Ethiopia

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