Heddle Pulley

Baule, Côte d’Ivoire
19th–20th century
Wood with remaining fiber cord

Provenance: Josef Mueller Collection, Solothurn / Geneva, Switzerland.

Auction history Christie’s, London, Tribal Art: Collection of Josef Mueller, Part II, March 20, 1979, lot 51

This finely carved Baule heddle pulley features a stylized face surmounted by sweeping, inward-curving horns. A rounded forehead, arched brows, narrow eyes, and an elongated nose give the face a composed expression, while geometric carving along the sides adds texture and detail. The wood has a rich, dark brown patina, with lighter areas exposed through wear and handling.

Used in weaving, the pulley retains pronounced wear at the bottom, where repeated friction from the working cord has worn and polished the wood. Remains of the fiber suspension cord survive at the top, further preserving evidence of its functional history.