Burkina Faso

Mossi

Wood
20th century
Length: #1 – 13 inches; #2 – 11.5 inches
Aerophone – Edge-blown – Flute/Whistle

Two Akimbo-form flutes/whistles of the Mossi People or Guronsi People in Burkina Faso. Their abstract shape suggest a human anatomy, with elbows out. These flutes/whistles are played at various occasions, e.g., in ensembles at initiation and funeral rites, as signaling devices of hunters and warriors, and in farming contests, sounded by the winner to announce victory.  The flute/whistle may produce three or four notes.