Burkina Faso, Black Volta River region
Bwa

Wood with nice patina
Early 20th century
Length: 17.5 inches
Aerophone – Edge-blown – Flute/Whistle

This beautiful hand carved bulbous-shaped bird flute is from the Bwa People of Burkina Faso. There is a hole in the top and holes on the sides of the diamond shaped body. A feather was often placed on the top hole to keep the bugs out. The Bwa play flutes to accompany the music of balafons and the rapid beat of drums during ceremonies and mask performances. They are played in groups of 5 to 7 or more men. Each flute is played in a set of notes with a complex but very repetitive tune. Because the languages in this area are tonal, flutes can imitate the tonal patterns of spoken phrases, as well as those in songs. Burkina Faso is a multi-ethnic nation with about sixty ethnic and linguistic groups. The Bwa (Bwaba) are in the northwest.  Shows usage and a great patina.