Description
The Dinka people are a herder Nilotic group residing in the southern central savanna of Africa. They speak Nilo-Saharan languages & have a nomadic lifestyle, moving seasonally in search of water & grazing land. Though the Dinka are the largest ethnic group in central Africa, their historical background is unclear, but they settled in the area around 1800. Known for their prowess in defense against the Ottomans, the Dinka value warriorhood, which is transmitted through the initiation of young boys who receive traditional warrior equipment. Presently, the Dinka practice cattle herding & agriculture. in terms of art, Dinka personal & body adornments are remarkable, & they excel in crafting small, portable objects such as stools & headrests. These items, known as "thoch," serve as both headrests & seats for old men & women, also protecting elaborate hairstyles. The headrests are considered very personal, believed to house the owner's soul. Some similar stools or headrests have been attributed to the neighboring Bongo people in the Dinka & Bari regions. 136615 Dinka Wood Headrest Central Africa
