Burkina Faso, Lobi, Africa/African
circa late 19th to early 20th century
13.5" H (34.3 cm)
13.75" (35 cm) with metal stand

A large wooden flute carved in a human shape that represents a particular clan and its totems, with a deep brown, almost black, patina across the entire surface developed from years of handling. This flute with an opening at the neck and two small sound holes positioned at the elbows would have been used at village festivals and to honor deceased elders of a community. Accompanying balafons and drums during mask performances and ceremonies, such flutes have traditionally been played solo or as part of an ensemble. Flutes like this example play several notes to produce a complex but somewhat repetitive song.