A wooden ancient Egyptian headrest recalls an architectural model of a Greek portico

The Egyptians used such contrivances for sleeping. The head was placed upon the headrest in lieu of a pillow. If the bed stood close to the ground, this offered protection from insects and scorpions. On the other hand, the open space beneath the head allowed currents of air to pass through, sparing the sleeper from the heat. Protective images were applied to headrests so that spirits and deities might look after the safety of the sleeper

Headrests are frequently found in tombs, discovered beside the mummy's mask, inside the sarcophagus, on top of the sarcophagus, or on the floor of the burial chamber