Neck Rest
Nsapo-Beneki, Songye Region, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Details
Title
Neck Rest
Artist/Maker
Nsapo-Beneki, Songye Region, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Date
Nineteenth century
Medium
Wood
Dimensions
7 inches
Credit
Fred and Rita Richman Collection
Accession #
2002.309
This neck rest, once used to support the head while resting or sleeping, was carved by an artist known to African art collectors as the Master of Beneki. Much of his work shares signature stylistic features, especially extravagantly large feet. In Songye art as well as in the art of the neighboring Luba, Kuba, and Shilele, prominent feet symbolize power. The motif refers to the confiscation of territory in warfare. This neck rest is supported by two back-to-back figures, both with huge feet.
Browse Related Artwork

Ernest Withers

Dawoud Bey

Harry Callahan

Alberto Giacometti

Thornton Dial, Sr.

Iris van Herpen

Benjamin Henry Latrobe

V. Elizabeth Turk

Unidentified Artist
![Untitled [large family]](https://highmuseum-redesign.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/datasync/collection-objects/24899_1677731083121.jpg)
Oraien Catledge

Kazuhiko Motomura