Blue and White Floral Headrest

c. 1900
$268 USD SOLD
Dimensions
W: 5.75" D: 2.75" H: 4.5"
Materials
Porcelain
Collection #
CESB020
Estimated Shipping
$20

This square ceramic block is actually a form of Chinese headrest or neck pillow. Popular during the Qing dynasty, rigid headrests such as this were used by upper-class women to protect their elaborate hairstyles by elevating the head during slumber. This example dates to the early 20th century and is wonderfully glazed in the blue-and-white style with deep, cobalt-blue color. The sides are decorated with floral motifs painted with expressive brushwork, including chrysanthemums, a symbol of longevity, and lotus blossoms, a symbol of beauty. Cutouts on either end allow for circulation, one side perforated to resemble interlocking coins, a symbol of wealth and good fortune.

Minor discoloration. Minor losses to one corner.

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Headrests

Headrests and neck pillows have been used since ancient times to keep the head elevated while sleeping and hold the body in a comfortable position. Whether functional or purely decorative, such headrests were crafted from a variety of materials and were often decorated with elaborate patterns or symbolic motifs.

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Andrea Goldman | Andrea Goldman Design

“Over the years, I’ve incorporated many pieces from PAGODA RED into my designs. Not only can they balance new furnishings (and often new construction) by feeling more established, but the pieces emanate a sense of rich history, often leaving you wondering where they were in a previous life. These beautiful pieces carefully hand-selected by the team at PAGODA RED, coupled with their unbelievable customer service, make them a must-have for any home.”

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