Mossi Wood Whistle or Flute, Based

Tall handle with a forked, ladder-marked top, mounted on a small plate.

This carved wood whistle or flute from the Mossi, with base is Mossi, from Burkina Faso, West Africa, and dates to the 20th century. Small wind instruments of carved wood are known throughout West Africa, and they are often valued for their sculptural form as well as their sound. Smooth brown staff with a long, slim shaft ending in a rounded foot. The top spreads into two curved arms and a zigzag-incised head. A thin cord is visible at one side, and the piece stands on a black stand. It is 3 inches wide, 1 deep and 13 high.

Raising both arms for no reason except style.