Senufo Heddle Pulley Bird 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 Senufo are made up of a number of diverse subgroups who migrated into their current location from the north during the 15th and 16th centuries. Unlike their neighbors to the north, they have remained relatively sheltered from intrusive cultures including the Songhai and Hausa. Although they have certainly borrowed knowledge from their neighbors, they have not had to fear constant attacks and social upheaval.

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.

Stand NOT included

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