Chasse-mouche à manche janiforme - Wood - Ivory Coast - Mid 20th century

Fly-whisk with a Janiform handle Baule, Ivory Coast First half of the 20th century. Wood and pigments. Height: 40 cm; Width: 18 cm Handle: Height: 19 cm; Width: 3 cm. Fly-whisk in wood, carved with a janiform handle. The two opposite heads are topped by arched horns, joining to form a sort of decorated hairdo. The whole is highlighted by black pigments, whereas a squared ring, incised with geometric motifs, is left raw. The hair of the fly-whisk is black horsehair. Of very nice quality. Indicating the social status, fly-whisks were material symbols of power and prestige, reserved to members of the royal family, dignitaries, influent citizens, as well as clan chiefs.