Guinea Bissau
Baga

Wood and hide
Early to Mid 20th century
Height: 45 inches
Chordophone – Harp

Harps and other stringed instruments are among the important art forms in Africa used both as a musical instrument and as a work of sculpture significant in many religious and secular ceremonial functions, including dance, rituals and story-telling. Many examples incorporate the human form as the body of the instrument. This harp has traces of the Baga or Limba people in the shape of its face and head. The head protrudes forward on a long neck with an anthropomorphic shaped body supported by large feet in an upright position. The wit of the sculptor who carved the figure continues as one looks at the delicately carved knee caps. The neck, where the harp would have been held when carried, is shiny and smooth from long use.