1978.48.McD Headrest supported by standing female figure

 African "pillows" are traditionally made of wood, ivory, or fired clay. The basic form of two platforms separated by a vertical post is consistent throughout Africa, from Egypt to South Africa, and throughout time, from antiquity to the present. Still used, this "pillow" is called a headrest because of the way it is used. While reclining on one's back or side, an individual places the upper platform at the back of the head. Alternatively, the platform can be placed under one ear and along the chin to support the head. In addition to protecting elaborate hairstyles, headrests provide a good night's sleep because the pressure of the headrest slightly numbs the nerves in the head resulting in a tranquilizing effect. Sculptors decorated the vertical posts in different ways. 

The vertical post of this Lulua headrest is carved in the form of a standing female figure whose face and body are elaborately decorated with low-relief scarification. The female caryatid on this example stands firmly on oversized feet and supports the platform on her head. Her hands are placed at the sides of her body as if to draw attention to her prominent navel.

 

From around 1938-1969: Private Collection, Hamburg and London

1969-1978: Stillman Collection, Dallas/New York [1], [2]

1978: Dallas Museum of Fine Arts, gift of Eugene and Margaret McDermott, purchased from above

[1] The name of the Dallas Museum of Fine Arts, founded in 1933, was changed to the Dallas Museum of Art in 1983.

[2] Works of art given or purchased by The Eugene and Margaret McDermott Art Fund, Inc., a non-profit organization, are placed in the custody of the DMA for the purpose of public display on the premises of the Museum or in other recognized art galleries or museums. The title to all works of art purchased (or otherwise acquired) by the McDermott Art Fun remains with the Fund.

Apply to objects where number equals 1978.48.McD