A finely carved Swazi wooden headrest, traditionally used as both a pillow and a personal possession of status. Fashioned from a single block of wood, the design balances practicality with sculptural elegance: the gently curved upper platform provides comfort, while the raised supports lift the head clear of the ground.
 
In Swazi culture, headrests were prized personal objects, serving not only as sleeping supports but also as symbols of identity and continuity. They protected intricate hairstyles, preserved body ornament, and acted as intimate companions carried through life. The smooth surface and deep patina of this example bear witness to prolonged handling and age.
 
43 cm x 9 cm x 13.5 cm