Whistle c. 1940s

wood

3d sculpting

3d model

3d printed part

rounded shape

virtual 3d design

3d character model

3d shape

metallic object render

3d modeling

wood

musical-instrument

3d character modeling

"Whistle" is a Grasslands artwork from the 1940s currently housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. The whistle, crafted from wood and rope, takes the form of a stylized human figure, with a large head, a rounded body, and an extended, slender leg. The figure is adorned with vibrant colors and intricate details, suggesting a cultural significance beyond its use as a sound-making instrument. This object is a fascinating example of Grasslands artistic traditions, offering a glimpse into their beliefs, customs, and creative expression.

Comments

minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

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The eerie cry of a single whistle is one thing, but an orchestra of dozens of whistles played at a funeral evokes the Otherworld. This whistle is in the stylized shape of a person—a common form among the Bamileke people—wearing a prestige cap that is popular in the Cameroonian Grasslands. A whistle can also be played individually to invoke personal protection. The beads covering the whistle were often used as a sign of wealth among the Bamileke people, who entertained extensive trading networks.