Baule Headrest Côte d'Ivoire
Width: 7.0
Depth: 2.0
Description
This elegant headrest originates from the Baule people of Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), renowned for their refined artistry and sophisticated woodcarving traditions. Headrests such as this were both utilitarian and symbolic, used to support the head during sleep while preserving elaborate hairstyles—often considered a symbol of beauty, identity, and social status.
Carved from a single piece of hardwood, Baule headrests often feature graceful curves and stylized forms, sometimes incorporating symbolic motifs or human figures. These objects also carried spiritual significance, believed to connect the sleeper to the world of dreams and ancestors.
Today, Baule headrests are valued not only as cultural artifacts but also as sculptural masterpieces that reflect the artistry and spiritual life of West African societies.
Height (In): 7.0
Width (In): 14.0
Depth (In): 6.0
151561
Approximate Age: Early 20th Century
People: Baule
Country of Origin: Central Africa
Material
Condition
Overall Condition: Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents, and have been treasured by several owners.
