Headrest with Silver Inlays

One end curls up like a head and the other drops like a tail, so the headrest has some animal in it.

This headrest with silver inlays dates to the 20th century and is wood and silver. Carved headrests were used across much of Africa and beyond to support the neck during sleep, often protecting an elaborate hairstyle, and many became prized personal objects. The long, curving platform is dark and glossy, edged all around with a dotted line of tiny silver inlays. It stands on squared, splayed legs. A rounded, upturned end rises at one side, and a downturned extension at the other. Twisted fiber cords are tied at both ends. It is 16.5 inches wide, 5 deep and 8 high.

A fine place to rest the head, though the pillow industry may disagree.