Northern Ghana
Frafra

Bone
ca. Late 19th or Early 20th Century
Length: 5.25
Aerophone – Edge-blown – Flute/Whistle

Two bone whistle artifact flutes, possibly from the Frafra People of northern Ghana. These instruments have acquired an exquisite patina from long use. The pierced holes in the bottom indicate that these flutes were hung around the neck. End-blown flutes such as these are common among the various people of West and Central Africa. They are held close to the lower lip and blown across to produce a pleasant high pitched tone. Often used by men and boys during ceremonies, dances, and as hunting whistles. The Frafra are a Voltaic speaking people and most of their Gurunsi relatives live in Burkina Faso. Differences among them during the colonial periods resulted in the Frafra splitting off and settling in Ghana.