Dense Wood Headrest Ethiopia

Ethiopian headrests come in various forms. They range from simple to elaborately carved artifacts. They have abstract shapes, and nice lines, and are sometimes decorated with sophisticated geometric patterns. Their styles are similar to those found among the other nomadic people of Uganda and Kenya, particularly among the Dinka, Maasai, the Karamajong, Rendille, Turkana, Pokot. Ethiopian headrests mostly come from peoples such as the Somali, Gurage, Kambatta, Sidamo, Oromo, and Arussi. Among these people headrests and stools play a vital role among men. These objects are carefully carved and carried by men everywhere they go. Headrests are used as pillows to help someone to have good sleep. They are also used as a comfort to help protect ceremonial coiffure. In some occasions headrests are used as stool. As a personal object, the headrest has become part of the individual. Usually, when the person dies, he is buried with his headrest. Sometimes the headrest is passed on to his heir, who would treat it with respect because this wooden piece embodies the spirit of the deceased person.

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