Card/Transcription No.: 403c-1

403, C. HEAD-REST
(see 403, a, b, and d.)

DIMENSIONS:
Max. L. 29.1; Max. W. 9.0; Max. H. 17.5. cents.

DESCRIPTION:
A head-rest carved of ivory, in perfect condition. 
The central column takes the form of a caryatid-figure of the
deity Shu, supporter of the heavens, who raises up and supports
the sky. He is also supposed to be a column of air, and in this
figure we may well see the god of the atmosphere which lies
between heaven and earth.
The details of the headdress and kilt of this figure are engraved
and filled in with a black pigment which takes a somewhat bluish
hue.
Suspended from the shoulder of the deity Shu are the <> amulets
meaning 'protection', and thus shows what is expected of him.
Inscribed on the pilaster on the back of the figure Shu is a
legend engraved and filled in with black pigment, reading:

<> joint

On the base (pedestal) of the head-rest are two recumbent lions,
facing outwards and carved in the round. It is possible that they
signify the extremities of the universe. The details of their
manes, ribs, a tuft of hair on the