Kuba Wooden Neck Rest (early 20th Century) Dr Congo

Authentic Kuba Wooden Headrest
Democratic Republic of Congo, Early 1900s
Hand-carved hardwood with incised geometric motifs
Dimensions: heigth 14 cm, width 18 cm

A rare and finely carved Kuba wooden headrest, dating from the early 20th century, crafted by the Kuba people of south-central Democratic Republic of Congo. This elegant object reflects the Kuba's renowned artistic tradition, characterized by its symmetrical design, refined geometry, and deep cultural symbolism.

Carved from a single piece of dense tropical hardwood, the headrest features a gently curved upper platform, flanked by twin support columns and anchored by a solid base. The top surface is adorned with intricately incised cross-hatched and bordered motifs, echoing patterns found in Kuba textiles and royal regalia.

More than a utilitarian object, this headrest was a marker of status and identity, typically reserved for noblemen, elders, or titled individuals within Kuba society. It served both as a practical sleep aid, protecting elaborate coiffures, and as a spiritual tool, linking the sleeper to ancestral realms through dreams.

The rich patina, visible tool marks, and overall wear attest to its age and authentic use, making it a valuable piece for collectors of African art, ethnographic material culture, or early colonial-era artifacts.