Luba Peoples
Shankadi Region, Democratic Republic of Congo

Carved wood headrests like this one are used throughout east and central Africa to elevate the head while sleeping. The elite of the Luba Peoples valued their headrests as important possessions. They believed headrests influenced dreams—the more beautiful the headrest, the better the dream. This example takes the form of a woman kneeling with arms supporting a “pillow” of cloth. Her almond-shaped eyes, pointed nose, and small mouth are marks of beauty among the Luba. The geometric pattern of scars on her body (called scarification) records stages of personal growth, proclaiming her wisdom and social position. Her elaborate hairstyle, worn by Luba women of high status, was formed over a cane frame and took almost 50 hours to style. Using a headrest to sleep helped the style last up to three months.

Wood, glass beads, string, 19th century
Purchased with funds from the Libbey Endowment, Gift of Edward Drummond Libbey, 2004.46