NEWSLETTER


Bruce Frank Primitive Art
New York City, NY
+1 917 733 9589

Whistle Figure

Pende People, Democratic Republic of Congo
19th-early 20th c

Provenance: Private French collection

This finely aged wooden whistle by the Pende of the D.R. Congo transcends its utilitarian origins, taking on the visual power of a miniature sculpture. Whistles such as this were often used during initiation rituals, masquerades, or dances, where their sound played an important role in summoning spirits or punctuating ceremonial action. They were typically worn suspended around the neck or tied to the wrist.

This particular example is exceptionally sculptural, with a compact, ovoid body and projecting side tubes worn soft and smooth from prolonged use. The facial features are boldly stylized: deeply incised eyes, a prominent mouth, and a commanding presence far beyond its scale.

Whistle Figure

Pende People, Democratic Republic of Congo
19th-early 20th c

Provenance: Private French collection

This finely aged wooden whistle by the Pende of the D.R. Congo transcends its utilitarian origins, taking on the visual power of a miniature sculpture. Whistles such as this were often used during initiation rituals, masquerades, or dances, where their sound played an important role in summoning spirits or punctuating ceremonial action. They were typically worn suspended around the neck or tied to the wrist.

This particular example is exceptionally sculptural, with a compact, ovoid body and projecting side tubes worn soft and smooth from prolonged use. The facial features are boldly stylized: deeply incised eyes, a prominent mouth, and a commanding presence far beyond its scale.

Privacy Settings
We use cookies to enhance your experience while using our website. If you are using our Services via a browser you can restrict, block or remove cookies through your web browser settings. We also use content and scripts from third parties that may use tracking technologies. You can selectively provide your consent below to allow such third party embeds. For complete information about the cookies we use, data we collect and how we process them, please check our Privacy Policy
Youtube
Consent to display content from - Youtube
Vimeo
Consent to display content from - Vimeo
Google Maps
Consent to display content from - Google