These two fine flutes, respectively carved into what appears to be an abstracted male and female form, exhibit a wonderful interplay of geometric forms. Each flute derives from a different private European collection, however, it is possible that the instruments were produced by the same hand - and therefore, have been 'reunited'. Hung around the neck by strands of leather, these flutes would have been played in ceremonies by Bamileke musicians and traditional hunters.
The abstracted 'heads' of both figures each comprise two holes - through which a strand of leather would have passed through - which, by themselves, are suggestive of eyes. A pair of raised striations feature on the head of the 'male' figure, while the geometric shape of the other figure's head appears to be an abstracted representation of a female coiffure. Carved rings adorn the neck of the 'male', and a strip of snakeskin has been wrapped around the body of the 'female'.
Estimated Period: First Half of 20th Century (1930’s)
Left: Ex Jan Lundberg Collection, Sweden
Right: Ex Private Collection, Belgium
BMFBH00
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