West Africa, Ivory Coast, Senufo peoples, ca. first half of the 20th century CE. A pair of beautifully carved wooden pulleys in the form of distinct, long-beaked, crested bird heads. One of the pulleys is accessorized with a spindle and wheel at its base while the other has a rope attached at its neck. The largest of the two pulleys has a broad, rounded forehead, a rectangular neck, and rounded shoulders that lead down to squared delineated legs. The smaller is similar in shape but with an elliptical head and a zig-zag pattern incised across its midsection. Heddle pulleys were used by the Senufo on narrow band looms to ease the movements of heddles - part of the looping mechanism of a loom. Although functional, these objects were often carved to showcase the ability and skill of the weaver and were displayed honorably at the entrance of their workshops. Size of largest: 2.5" L x 1" W x 6.25" H (6.4 cm x 2.5 cm x 15.9 cm); 7" H (17.8 cm) on included custom stand.
Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-Scott McCue collection, Los Angeles, California, USA
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#164758
Condition
Surface wear commensurate with use and age. Largest pulley has had one leg repaired by metallic binding. Light abrasions scattered over the surface of both. Otherwise, in good condition – with lustrous walnut finish to wood. Custom stands included.