H x W x D: 20.9 x 7.2 x 6.1 cm (8 1/4 x 2 13/16 x 2 3/8 in.)
Type:
Sculpture
Geography:
Côte d'Ivoire
Date:
Mid-20th century
Label Text:
In use on a narrow strip loom, this pulley was both functional and aesthetic. It eased the movements of the heddles in separating the warp threads to allow the shuttle carrying the weft thread to pass through. The pulley also called attention to the skills of the sculptor who carved it, advertising his availability to undertake commissions to carve other figurative art, such as masks or shrine figures.The female head on this example can be compared with female figures carved as spirit partners in the museum's collection.
Description:
Wood heddle pulley topped with a female head with elaborate coiffure and incised geometric patterns on the front and sides. Pulley has its bobbin.
Provenance:
Samuel Rubin, New York, -- to 1979
Content Statement:
As part of our commitment to accessibility and transparency, the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art is placing its collection records online. Please note that some records are incomplete (missing image or content descriptions) and others reflect out-of-date language or systems of thought regarding how to engage with and discuss cultural heritage and the specifics of individual artworks. If you see content requiring immediate action, we will do our best to address it in a timely manner. Please email nmafacuratorial@si.edu if you have any questions.
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