Wooden Ethiopian headrest carved from a single block of endemic hardwood used to elevate and protect elaborate hairstyles during the night. The saddle is often a dark color owing to the butter used to soften women's hair.
This is a museum-grade piece from the Gurage tribe. It shows much use over time, has a well-impregnated saddle, and projects an image of raw tribal life. It has seen so much use that the vertical engravings on both sides has eroded over time. Remnants are still visible close to the base.
"Tirase" are important objects, often carried around and used to sit hotsell on during the day, (mostly by men). Circa 1920.
Cracks, chips, dings, and discolouration.
This item is part of my private collection, acquired in 2008 in Western Ethiopia.
Dimensions are: H 6 3/8" X W 6 1/4" X D 3 1/2" - H 17 cm X W 16 cm X D 9 cm
Product code: Old hotsell Tribally Used Ethiopian Headrest