headrest

This wooden headrest has two animal heads carved into the sides. Headrests are personal possessions owned and used by an individual, and at their death may be kept by a member of the family in remembrance.

Headrests or neckrests are used by many Pacific people for resting and sleeping, instead of soft pillows. Some claim they help to protect elaborate hair styles but they are also cooler for humid tropical climates. Men use headrests more than women. The amount of decoration is related to the social status of their owners.