Red Lacquer Hide Pillow

Dated to the late 19th century, this extraordinary Chinese headrest is hand-crafted of lacquered hide atop an elongated bamboo frame. Used while sleeping like a modern pillow, the headrest has a pliable design that enabled contour comfort - quite luxurious for the time. Brushed atop an under layer of black lacquer, the bright cinnabar red lacquer finish has worn gently from years of use for an inimitable weathered texture and fantastic patina. Elevated by a custom steel mount, the rare headrest becomes a storied work of sculpture.

Minor splits along the seams.