Neckrest, Southeast Africa

This designation refers to functional and ceremonial neckrests produced by various cultures across Southeast Africa, including the Shona, Nguni, Tsonga, and neighboring groups. These carved wooden objects served both practical purposes as sleeping supports and held symbolic significance related to status, spiritual protection, and rites of passage. Examples have appeared regularly at major auction houses including Sotheby's, Christie's, and Bonhams as part of African art and tribal art sales.