Object Details
- Label Text
- This type of man's headrest is one of two types used by Somali nomads. Where both forms are used, the single support is generally for men of lesser status than those who use the double-support type. The small, easily unbalanced base has made the headrest an emblem of alertness and the ability to wake to action. Made of sturdy but relatively light wood, the headrests are used on beds and are also carried by herdsmen who use them to rest while keeping an eye on their herds. They may be carved by the owner or commissioned from an artist. The inscribed interlace patterns reflect the influence of Islamic graphic design in the region.
- Description
- Wood headrest with cresecent top, circular base and single support with vertical intertwining elements and incised geometric pattern. Fiber loop and red yarn tassel hang from support post.
- Provenance
- Ambassador and Mrs. John Loughran, acquired Mogadishu, Somalia, 1975 to 1976
- Exhibition History
- Africa: The Art of a Continent, Royal Academy of Arts, London, September 25, 1995-February 28, 1996; Martin-Gropius-Bau, Berlin, February 29-May 1, 1996
- Published References
- Goodman, Elaine Sooy. 2009. "Warren M. Robbins and the Founding of the National Museum of African Art." Tribal Art XIII:2 (51), p. 91, no. 12.
- Phillips, Tom (ed). 1995. Africa: The Art of a Continent. Munich: Prestel; London: Royal Academy of London, pp. 128-129, no. 2.9b.
- Content Statement
- As part of our commitment to accessibility and transparency, the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art is placing its collection records online. Please note that some records are incomplete (missing image or content descriptions) and others reflect out-of-date language or systems of thought regarding how to engage with and discuss cultural heritage and the specifics of individual artworks. If you see content requiring immediate action, we will do our best to address it in a timely manner. Please email nmafacuratorial@si.edu if you have any questions.
- Image Requests
- High resolution digital images are not available for some objects. For publication quality photography and permissions, please contact the Eliot Elisofon Photographic Archives at https://africa.si.edu/research/eliot-elisofon-photographic-archives/
- Data Source
- National Museum of African Art
- Maker
- Somali (Hawiye or Digil clan) artist
- Date
- Late 20th century
- Credit Line
- Gift of the Loughrans
- Medium
- Wood, plant fiber
- Dimensions
- H x W x D: 21.0 x 16.3 x 7.3 cm (8 1/4 x 6 7/16 x 2 7/8 in.)
- Type
- Decorative Arts
