Neck bracelet of the Zulu people. South Africa, Zulu, Northern Nguni, 20th century

Neck bracelet of the Zulu people. South Africa, Zulu, Northern Nguni, 20th century.
Wood.
Published in "La tête dans les étoiles, Appuis-nuque d'Afrique et d'ailleurs", Brussels, Bruneaf / MRAC Tervuren, 2012, issue C, p.144.
Presents nice patina and wear.
Measurements: 12 x 34 cm.

The neck rest in tender differs from other objects of this typology in that it presents three feet instead of only one. The three feet are embellished with geometric motifs carved on both the obverse and reverse.

Simple in line, it is an object of use, as most funerary headboards were decorated with gods to protect the possessor in moments of sleep, as well as inscriptions with names and titles of the deceased, or more elaborate carvings.
Their arched shape to support the head not only ensures a relatively comfortable position while sleeping, but also allows air to circulate around the head. Still, due to its rigidity, it is believed to be more for votive use.