Dinka Wood Headrest Central Africa

The Dinka people (Dinka: Jiɛ̈ɛ̈ŋ) are a Nilotic ethnic group indigenous to South Sudan. They primarily inhabit the Nile River basin, stretching from Mangalla through Bor to Renk, as well as the regions of Bahr el Ghazal and Upper Nile, and the Abyei area traditionally associated with the Ngok Dinka.

Though the Dinka are the largest ethnic group in central Africa, their historical background is unclear, but they settled in the area around 1800. Known for their prowess in defense against the Ottomans, the Dinka value warriorhood, which is transmitted through the initiation of young boys who receive traditional warrior equipment. Presently, the Dinka practice cattle herding and agriculture.

In terms of art, Dinka personal and body adornments are remarkable, and they excel in crafting small, portable objects such as stools and headrests. These items, known as "thoch," serve as both headrests and seats for old men and women, also protecting elaborate hairstyles. The headrests are considered very personal, believed to house the owner's soul. Some similar stools or headrests have been attributed to the neighboring Bongo people in the Dinka and Bari regions.

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