Tribal Art

One of the feet supporting this loosely zoomorphic headrest retained the natural shape of a branch segment. The oblong seat, patinated by use, is pleated on the contours under which a handle has been cleverly arranged. The growths at each end give this seat an aerodynamic shape. Brown glossy patina. Desication cracks and erosions.
This prestige object was intended to preserve the complex headdress of its owner, which also indicated its social status, but was also used as a stool. Some, with handles, accompanied individuals on their travels, such as hunting or guarding livestock. Among the Mandari of South Sudan, men shed their neck support as they age, which they give to younger people to acquire more comfortable ones.
Dealy was collected about these nomadic inhabitants of southern Sudan. Some of these East African tribes have been virtually exterminated by the inter-tribal wars and the Islamic slave trade. Ref. : " The Tribal Art of Black Africa J.B.BACQUart Dreams on wood Ed. 5Continents.