This wooden flute/whistle from Burkina Faso, carved into a phallic form, exhibits a lovely smooth, golden patina. In the Mossi culture, flutes/whistles such as this were played by recently initiated males during masquerade ceremonies. The flute would have been hung around the initiates’ necks, as indicated by a knuckle on the front of the flute.
(This piece would normally sell for £450 and is offered at a reduced price for young and novice collectors )
Estimated Period: Mid-20th Century