Headrests were used by men to protect their hairstyles while
they slept. Many east African pastoralists regard coiffure primarily as an indicator of
status. A young man is entitled to begin wearing the distinctive coiffure that marks him
as an adult only after he is initiated. The use of headrests is often associated with this
advancement and the headrests themselves become status symbols. The Dinka multi-
purpose headrests/stools also provide a convenient place to sit as it is not considered
proper for elderly men to sit directly on the ground. This is a particularly ornate piece, but is priced as is due to signs of wear and tear.
Height: 7 1/2" x Width: 7 1/2" x Length: 20 3/4"
