Oromo Wood Headrest, Ethiopia

A simple curve on a simple cone. Everything unneeded was removed.

Oromo people of Ethiopia, East Africa, made this headrest in wood in the mid or late 19th century. Headrests are commonly used in the Horn of Africa to protect elaborate hairstyles and to raise the head during sleep. A gently arched cradle sits on a short neck above a smooth, wide, conical base. The wood is honey brown, with a rich, soft sheen and slight signs of wear.

About 5 and a half inches tall. A little sculpture of absolute calm.