Very fine headrest supported by four caryatid human figures ·  Papua New Guinea - Lower Sepik · ID: 3050282

Description

wood, pigments,

Headrests are often adorned with images of spirits, ancestors, or other supernatural beings.

The headrest is imbued with an especially significant spirituality because of its association with the mystical aura of sleep. Sleep was recognized as the most intimate relationship with the spirit realm, therefore the decoration on headrests was especially intertwined with their spiritual beliefs.

Sleeping on a headrest with ancestors and clan totems protects the person when sleeping from malevolent spirits and dreams.

The more practical aspect is in many places in New Guinea men had elaborate hairstyles that they spent time and effort to keep looking their best. The headrest helps protect their hairstyles while sleeping.