In the eastern regions of Africa at the end of the 19^th century the impact of the Islamic slave trade and constant inter-tribal wars contributed to the near extinction of some of these peoples. Information about them is scarce and fragmentary.

The Dinka and Shilluk settled in southern Sudan and their carvers produced wooden headrests which have a three-legged natural shape. They are made from a branch of a tree that has been pruned into the right shape and are often suggestive of animals. A man’s status was frequently shown by the quality of his coiffure, so a neck rest was used during the night to keep it in place. Dinka elders also use these high neck rests as stools – it is considered undignified for a dignitary to sit on the floor.  Another known social practice in this region is ivory bracelets are worn by Dinka and Shilluk elders during communal ceremonies.

Source:  Baquart, Jean-Baptiste. The Tribal Arts of Africa. New York: Thames and Hudson Inc.