This old and well used flute shows the abstract anthropomorphic form suggestive of a man with his hands on his hips. The body is decorated with incised lines and the end of the flute has a phallic form. This typically Mossi flute was played by blowing across the cavity at the top creating a tonal sound relating to native speech. It was an essential musical accompaniment to ceremonial occasions and mask performances.
Provenance: Jacqueline Loudmer collection, France
