Headrest from the Kambatta people of Ethiopia

Headrests are used by many nomadic people of Eastern Africa while resting or sleeping. It is popularly believed that the headrest serves a
protective function by elevating the head off the ground during sleep, thereby preventing any possible attack by snakes or scorpions.

Ethiopia is the oldest independent nation of Africa, and is home to a myriad of peoples with over 80 different spoken languages. The Kambatta reside
west of the Gurage, along the banks of the upper Omo River. Ethiopian men generally use these headrest for sleeping and to keep their elaborate
coiffures off the ground.
A wonderful headrest with an old worn patina from the Kambatta people of Ethiopia.
7.5" tall

This piece exudes age. This piece is beautifully engraved with geometric markings and is worn smooth with age.