Turkana Head Rest, 1978.4.24, Museum Purchase
This “mystery object” received an overwhelming number of votes in our visitor poll! A mystery no more, this head rest was accessioned into the Turtle Bay museum collection in 1978 with the description, “head rest from the Turkana culture of Northwestern Kenya; used to protect hairdos while sleeping and to keep bugs from getting into hair; carried with a sash worn around the waist and is sometimes used as a stool.” So, now you know!
Head rests originated in ancient Egypt and can be found in Africa, Asia, and Oceania to this day. In fact, they are still used by some African groups, such as the Turkana. Because they are semi-nomadic pastoralists, they carry many of their belongings from place to place. This includes the head rest, which must be light and portable. In Africa, tribal forms, materials, and decorations can be distinctive; however, there is much crossover between neighboring groups. Some of these details can be specifically attributed to gender, age, status, and more depending on tribal norms.
Delving into interesting objects like this one is a fun and educational way to explore the world, both near and far, from the comfort of your friendly neighborhood museum.
