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Whistle Player

19th–mid-20th century (?)
Not on view
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.
Among the secondary protagonists in Jo sculptural ensembles are figures who honor the heroic stature and feats of the nurturing mother, Gwandansu, and her authoritative male counterpart, Gwantigi. Musicians were among the retinue of attendants portrayed showing deference to them through the performance of musical tributes blown on whistles and plucked on lutes.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Whistle Player
  • Date: 19th–mid-20th century (?)
  • Geography: Mali
  • Culture: Bamana peoples
  • Medium: Wood
  • Dimensions: H. 53 × W. 18 × D. 12 in. (134.6 × 45.7 × 30.5 cm)
  • Classification: Wood-Sculpture
  • Credit Line: The Menil Collection, Houston
  • Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing