Detail View: The AMICA Library: Headrest

AMICA ID: 
BCM_.90.17
AMICA Library Year: 
2003
Object Type: 
Decorative Arts and Utilitarian Objects
Description: 
A man's three-legged wooden headrest carved from a branch positioned horizontally with the slightly flattened top as the platform. Three smaller branches radiate from the platform as legs. Two at one end in a V formation and one at the opposite end.
Creator Nationality: 
African
Creator Name-CRT: 
Borana, Kenya
Title: 
Headrest
View: 
Full view
Creation Date: 
1980
Creation Start Date: 
1980
Creation End Date: 
1980
Materials and Techniques: 
Wood
Classification Term: 
Furnishings
Creation Place: 
Kenya, Africa
Dimensions: 
Height: 5 1/3"; width: 9 1/2"
AMICA Contributor: 
Brooklyn Children's Museum
Owner Location: 
Brooklyn, New York, USA
ID Number: 
90.17
Credit Line: 
Museum purchase, 1990
Rights: 
Context: 
Headrests were given to young men after initiation as an indication of status and prestige. They were used to protect elaborate hairstyles and to elevate the head above dirt and away from insects during sleep, and were also used as stools. They were carried on journeys, and were valued personal property often passed on in families.
Related Image Identifier Link: 
BCM_.90-17.tif