Cleveland Museum of Art

Flywhisk

Date

late 1800s-early 1900s

Medium

Wood and animal hair

Culture

Africa, Central Africa, Democratic Republic of Congo (most likely), Cabinda, or Republic of the Congo, probably Yombe-style maker

Department

African Art

Institution

Cleveland Museum of Art

In Central Africa, flywhisks denoted status, rank, and function, rather than used to whisk away flies. Commonly associated with chiefs and titleholders, they were also owned by diviners and healers. Their purpose may also have been used to purify spaces, bless people, places, or things, and settle disputes. Flywhisks rarely depict women; yet this finely carved miniature of a woman kneeling signifies obedience and respect. Rarely do flywhisks depict a female figure.

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