Owner: HWMC
Catalog#: LA-AEIF-01

Kalapálo People 'Bullroarer' - Brazil

Mato Grosso (MT), Central-West Region, Brazil
Kalapalo People (Handcrafted)

Wood, cordage, paint
Mid-20th century
Length: 11.5 inches
Aerophone –  Interruptive Free

The Kalapalo people of Brazil, like many Indigenous groups globally, use instruments with similar functions to the bullroarer, a sacred object producing a deep, whirring sound.  While the specific Kalapalo name isn’t given, their location in the Upper Xingu region (Brazil) suggests traditional practices involving deep connections to nature and spirit, common in Amazonian cultures where such instruments are found.

The bullroarer, rhombus, or turndun is an ancient ritual musical instrument that dates to the Paleolithic period, with examples dating from 18,000 BCE having been found in Ukraine. This Kalapalo device consists of a curved rectangular thin slat of wood that is trimmed down to a sharp edge along the length of the wooden slat.  One end is pointed and the opposite end has a carved tail where a string is attached.  When swung in a large circle it produces a haunting roaring vibration sound.

Resource: https://www.si.edu/object/bullroarer:NMAI_270824    
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bullroarer

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