Burkina Faso, Black Volta River region
Bwa

Wood
ca. Mid-20th century
Length: 9.5 inches
Aerophone – Edge-blown – Flute/Whistle

This Bwa Flute (Mpiru) is carved in the akimbo style (a body position in which the hands are on the hips and the elbows are bent). Flutes and whistles are often made of wood, bamboo, clay or horn. These instruments may be plain in shape and design or highly ornamental.  They may be used for hunting , signaling, or for agricultural and initiation rituals.