Headrest

The headrest consists of three interlocking parts: a rectangular base, the tapering support column and semi-circular upper section. The Egyptians used padded headrests for protection against vermin when sleeping, similar to the type some African peoples still use today. The semi-circular headrest, on which the neck rested in a lateral position, was additionally padded with fabric. Apart from their practical application, headrests also had a religious character. It was placed as a gift in the grave next to the head of the deceased. The headrest was supposed to guarantee the connection between head and body in the afterlife and to help resurrect the deceased from his deathly slumber. Dr. Hugo Ficke acquired this headrest during his trip to Egypt in 1909 and donated it to the museum.