Headrest. China, late 19th century, Qing Dynasty (1644 - 1911)

Headrest. China, late 19th century, Qing dynasty (1644 - 1911).
Yumu wood.
Small tear/sticking missing on one side.
Measurements: 11 x 29 x 7 cm.

Headrests like the one we now present, with the top piece in the shape of a crescent moon, have been used for centuries in cultures all over the world. Today it is considered that in many African ethnic groups the population used wooden headrests instead of pillows, due to the warmth of the climate. However, in ancient Egypt Porphyry assumed that such objects were used only by priests and members of the wealthier classes. They have also been found as part of grave goods.