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Kasengosengo (whistle)

1950
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 681
Sub-Saharan whistles draw attention to special events like the arrival of a king and convey messages or signal during hunts. In ensembles, each whistle may sound at a specific time to form a melody. Whistles are crafted in traditional forms. Though the whistle's carved images are inverted when played, the depictions may add to its prestige.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Kasengosengo (whistle)
  • Date: 1950
  • Geography: Democratic Republic of the Congo
  • Culture: Chokwe
  • Medium: Wood
  • Dimensions: Overall: 5.5 x 4 x 14.5cm (2 3/16 x 1 9/16 x 5 11/16in.)

    Weight: under 40 lbs
  • Classification: Aerophone-Whistle Flute
  • Credit Line: Purchase, Murtogh D. Guinness Bequest, 2004
  • Object Number: 2004.281
  • Curatorial Department: Musical Instruments

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