African neck rest (Barkin). In wood. From Somalia. Early/mid 20th century

African neck rest (Barkin). In wood. From Somalia. Early/mid 20th century

Barkin is the traditional Somali neck rest, carved out of a single piece of hagar wood. The two curved pillars indicate the owner's high status; single-pillar versions were reserved for younger men. The pillars' outer sides are richly decorated with tight, incised patterns of plaitwork and spiral motifs, which researchers interpret as Islamic prayer symbolism; a visual prayer for protection over the sleeping person. The base is oval and similarly decorated with incised triangular and zigzag bands. The deliberately small base makes the neck rest unstable, so the owner does not fall into deep sleep. A practical feature for nomads who would have to keep watch at night.

Provenance: Originates from the collection of a Danish nurse, who from approx. 1947–60 was part of the UN's vaccination program in Africa and Asia. In connection with this, she acquired these neck rests.

Dimensions: approx. 18,8x18,6x9,3 cm. Condition: see pictures.