Appui-tête Luba

A Luba headrest with two figures

This Luba headrest was made in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in the mid-20th century. Its structure features two kneeling human figures positioned beneath a horizontal crossbar, which they support with their heads. Offered by Versmissen under reference AAA879, the object is carved from wood, has a brown color, and measures 8 x 36 x 13,5 cm.

Headrests of this type were used to preserve elaborate hairstyles, which took a great deal of time to arrange and could not be redone daily. Here, the object's function is combined with detailed figurative craftsmanship: the two figures form the support for the crossbar and are integral to its composition. The piece therefore reflects both the aesthetic and functional importance attributed to this object in Luba culture.

Features of the Luba headrest

• Two kneeling human figures
• Horizontal crossbar supported by the figures
• Material: wood
• Dimensions: 8 x 36 x 13,5 cm
• Origin: Democratic Republic of the Congo