Gurage Wood Headrest, Ethiopia

A hefty, lumpy curve of dark brown, scratched like a well-used desk.

This carved wood headrest is Gurage, from Ethiopia, East Africa, and dates to the 19th century. The Gurage peoples live in the highlands of south central Ethiopia, and they are known for farming, trade and the cultivation of the enset plant. A thick, rounded block with a gently dipped top and bulging sides. Many fine scratches and a few cut marks cover the front, along with a reddish patch at the lower left. The surface is dark and slightly rough, with chunky corners. It is 6 inches wide, 3 deep and 5.38 high.

No polish required, a lot of character earned.