South African Zimbabwe Shona Carved Wood Headrest
A Fine South African Zimbabwe Shona Carved Wood Headrest
Superb untouched smooth silky dark brown patina
19th Century
Size: 12.5cm high, 15cm wide, 6.5cm deep - 5 ins high, 6 ins wide, 2½ ins deep
Superb untouched smooth silky dark brown patina
19th Century
Size: 12.5cm high, 15cm wide, 6.5cm deep - 5 ins high, 6 ins wide, 2½ ins deep
The abstract designs of these Shona headrests evoke the form of a human body. The triangle and circle motifs stretch up the vertical support units to touch the top where triangles are pierced and run across the smooth dark surface. The scarification to the top of this headrest imitates that found on the smooth skin of Shona women. The headrest makes this link real and visible as the designs cut into the upper surface would be imprinted onto the sleeping owner’s cheek.
South African Zimbabwe Shona Carved Wood Headrest
SOLD
