Striking hand-carved African zoomorphic wooden headrest in a stylized bovine form. Carved from a single piece of wood, it features four legs, a long narrow body with a gently curved resting surface, and carved geometric detailing with a sculptural head and tail.

Measures approx. 18" long, 3" wide at shoulders, and 2" wide at center.

The form is consistent with traditional African headrests used for resting and protecting elaborate hairstyles. Similar examples are associated with East African and South Sudanese traditions, including Dinka groups. Exact origin and age are unknown; offered as possibly Dinka / East African.

Shows age-related patina, surface wear, and hand-tool marks. Please review photos for details.

From a longtime private collection including African, pre-Columbian, and European objects.

A strong example of African folk and ethnographic sculpture.