Headrest

ClassificationsFurnishings-Furniture-headrests

Culture Karamojong

Date20th Century

Made AtUganda, Africa

MediumWood

Dimensions8 3/4 × 6 1/8 × 2 1/4 in. (22.2 × 15.6 × 5.7 cm)

Credit LineGift of Anne and Long Shung Shih

Object number2017.11.31

DescriptionThis variation of headrest was made by the Karamojong, a Nilotic group living in northeast Uganda. Like many of the groups of the greater region, the Karamojong are primarily livestock herders and the prevalence of this profession among the Karamojong has permeated many facets of their culture. These tall, narrow headrests are designed to be precarious so as to keep the user from falling into a deep sleep and losing track of their herd. This particular design was made by the Meneg clan of the Karamojong. At least in certain instances, it was noted to hold special magical powers of guidance and the ability to commune with the community’s ancestors.

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