Guru Heddle Pulley Elephant Côte d'Ivoire MATTER COLLECTION

Heddle pulleys, commonly utilized in pairs, serve the purpose of strip-weaving extended sections of fabric, which are subsequently stitched together to create larger textiles. The heddle's primary function involves elevating alternating warp threads to allow the weft thread to pass through. The inclusion of a figure in these pulleys, is a significant symbol representing fertility and intelligence within the Senufo culture.

Heddle pulleys have become real pieces of art that are found in museums and collections around the world for they are decorated with carved heads and human and animal forms. In most cases, these decorations recall masks, figures seen as spirits who are supposed to protect the weaver and help him produce good-quality textiles.

The Guro people live in a region of mixed savanna and dense forest west of the Baule, with a cultural history shaped by both indigenous traditions and colonial influence in the early 20th century. Their artistic practices remain deeply tied to spiritual beliefs and communal identity.

Provenance: Matter Collection

From the collection of Margie and Phil Matter. Margie lived in South Africa, and later she and her husband Phil opened a gallery in Tucson. Everything in this collection was in their home for more than thirty years. Africa Direct recently bought the collection; at 95, Margie wants to share the things she has loved so much.

Pulley cannot stand on its own. 

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