Mossi Wood Whistle or Flute, Based

A hollow wooden form, long and lean, with arms that loop like handles.

Mossi carvers of Burkina Faso, West Africa, made this whistle or flute in wood in the 20th century. Carved wind instruments in the region are commonly sounded for signaling, music and ceremony. The long shaft widens at the top into a crest topped with a ridged, leaf-like point, with two slim arms curving down to meet the stem. The wood is a soft honey tan, smooth from handling.

About thirteen inches tall. Calm, vertical, and a nice answer to a plain wall.