Chinese Opium Den Pillow, 19th Century

Traditionally rigid, Chinese pillows do not correspond to the idea of European comfort. Created in all kinds of materials such as ceramic, wood, jade, bronze, bamboo or stone, their vocation is medical, prophylactic and prevents damage to the fragile and complex hairstyles of wealthy sleepers.
If these objects are not dug with cavities in which medicinal plants and flowers are placed, they are carved from blocks of precious and/or fragrant wood, thus providing soothing “care” to the sleeper.
Rigid Chinese pillows lasted until the first quarter of the 20th century before gradually disappearing in favor of soft Western pillows.