Chokwe 2 Piece Connected Headrest

A pillow for the neck, built like a small stool.

Chokwe artists of Angola, Central Africa, made this two-piece connected headrest in wood in the 20th century. Headrests across Central Africa were commonly used for sleeping, protecting elaborate hairstyles, and they could signal status. Here a gently curved, cushion-like top rests on four slender legs that sweep downward to a round, flat base. The wood is dark and polished, with a smooth surface and a mellow brown tone.

About 6 inches tall and 7 inches wide. Sculpture for a shelf, with a past life as a pillow.