Abstract: A hoisting frame or head block (1) for a container crane (17), comprises a frame structure (8) provided with two pairs of cable sheaves (5) which pairs are at a distance from each other in the longitudinal direction of the frame structure (8), connecting means (9) for connecting a secondary hoisting frame or spreader (2, 3) to the frame structure (8), a drive mechanism (12) for displacing the cable sheaves (5) of each pair with respect to each other in the transverse direction of the frame structure (8) between a small mutual rest position distance respectively a large mutual rest position distance, as well as rest position stabilisation means for stabilising the rest positions of the sheaves of each pair.