Collection
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Egyptian, Classical, Ancient Near Eastern Art

Headrest of Shemai

ca. 2288–2170 B.C.E.

1 of 3

Object Label

This headrest—the Egyptian version of a pillow—was found in the tomb of a man named Shemai. Headrests were believed to have magical powers that protected the head from evil spirits. The inscription on this example invokes Osiris, god of the afterworld, suggesting that Shemai had it made specifically for his tomb.

Caption

Headrest of Shemai, ca. 2288–2170 B.C.E.. Alabaster, pigment, 7 5/8 in. (19.4 cm) base: 6 3/16 × 2 3/4 in. (15.7 × 7 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund, 59.3. (Photo: Brooklyn Museum)

Title

Headrest of Shemai

Date

ca. 2288–2170 B.C.E.

Dynasty

Dynasty 6

Period

Old Kingdom

Geography

Place excavated: Deir el Nawahid, Egypt

Medium

Alabaster, pigment

Classification

Furniture

Dimensions

7 5/8 in. (19.4 cm) base: 6 3/16 × 2 3/4 in. (15.7 × 7 cm)

Credit Line

Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund

Accession Number

59.3

Frequent Art Questions

  • Have you ever tested out a headrest like this? All I can think is "ow!"

    I've never tried one of those headrests, personally! I do know though, that part of the reason it looks so uncomfortable is that its missing its cushion!
    It's definitely very supportive! It may have also been a cooler way to rest in a very hot climate, since it allows for circulation all around the head and neck (unlike a soft pillow).
    This one was excavated from a tomb, where it was placed with the expectation that the deceased person would have used it in the afterlife.

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