Democratic Republic of the Congo  (Kinshasa) 
Lengola

Wood, cloth, and cowries
ca. Mid-20th century
Length: 54 cm
Aerophone – Edge-blown – Flute/Whistle

Large African flute from the Lengola (Balengola)People, who live on the left bank of the Zaire River. The Lengola social stability is structured around “secret” societies, in particular the Bukota.  The flute is hand carved from one piece of wood, in the form of a figure with three faces.  Early-Mid 20th century with dark patina and is adorned with red cloth (symbol of life forces) and cowries.