Figurative Whistle (Ndemba)

Unknown

19th–20th century · Wood · Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas

Within Yaka communities, the designs of utilitarian objects have been enhanced with geometric patterns and figurative elements. Such sculptural details are distinctive for their upturned noses and sunken, slitted eyes. Both features connote the superior sensory perception associated with leadership. Ndemba are one of three types of hunting whistle carved by Yaka sculptors. They are worn by the heads of annual hunts in which all members of the community participated. The sharp notes of the whistle were emitted both to alert village members prior to the start of the event and to recall the leader’s hunting dog.

Artist

Unknown

Date

19th–20th century

Medium

Wood

Culture

Yaka peoples

Department

Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas

Credit line

The Michael C. Rockefeller Memorial Collection, Purchase, Nelson A. Rockefeller Gift, 1966