Hunter’s whistle
Bambara · Mali
Reference: INM-10
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- Height
- 19 cm
- Material
- Wood
For the African hunter, the whistle is as important as his hunting weapons: his bow, spear or old, rustic shotgun made by the blacksmith (fusil de…
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Full original description
For the African hunter, the whistle is as important as his hunting weapons: his bow, spear or old, rustic shotgun made by the blacksmith (fusil de traite). The whistle acts as a lure for many animals, its sounds modulated with the hand and mouth. This implement, usually carved in wood or made from a fresh branch, allows the hunter to communicate with other hunters: to indicate his position, announce that he has killed a game animal, ask for help or signal that a particular ritual must be performed. The hunter will never leave without his whistle.
This whistle has a very dark patina and is topped by a Janus-like face.
Further technical information
- Attributed period
- Mid-20th century
Details transcribed from the original catalogue; they are not a recent physical inspection.
Country on the map
Mali. The country associated with the catalog is shown, not the current location of the piece.
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Attributions, dates and accounts come from the preserved catalogue. They do not constitute certification of authenticity or provenance. An object’s presence on this website does not mean it is available for sale.
