Ancient Egyptian Head Rest in British Museum. The ancient Egyptian equivalent of a pillow, the headrest (known to the ancient Egyptians as a weres) was used to support the head while sleeping. Broadly speaking, culturesboth ancient and modernwho use headrests share some characteristics that might make the use of this type of head support more practical. The use of headrests in climates that are hot is practice al as it lifts the head and neck above the sleeping surface, and air currents can flow under the head and cool the sleeper. Many have been found in tombs of ancient Egyptians.