SHONA, Zimbabwe. Wood, very fine dark brown and brown-black patina. The headrest is one of the indispensable objects of the Shona communities. It kept the headdress in shape during sleep and enabled communication with the spirits of the ancestors in the dream state. This ancient and rare "Mutsago" headrest consists of a long curved tray supported by two wide legs joined together and decorated on the edges with harmonious zigzag motifs. Early 20th century. Length: 36 cm. Height: 8.5 cm. Provenance: Collection of a couple of collectors, Blois. Acquired from Galerie Serge Schoffel. Certificate of February 2006 attached.