In Central Africa, flywhisks denoted status, rank, and function, rather than used to whisk away flies. Commonly associated with chiefs and titleholders, they were also owned by diviners and healers. Their purpose may also have been used to purify spaces, bless people, places, or things, and settle disputes. Flywhisks rarely depict women; yet this finely carved miniature of a woman kneeling signifies obedience and respect.

<i>Fragments of the Invisible: The René and Odette Delenne Collection of Congo Sculpture</i>. The Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH (organizer) (October 27, 2013-February 9, 2014).

Fragments of the Invisible: The René and Odette Delenne Collection of Congo Sculpture

A dark brown wood carving depicts a vertical flywhisk. A smooth handle supports the figure of a kneeling woman holding a small child against her side. Her face features wide lips and large, protruding eyes. Above her, a cylindrical section is decorated with deep cross-hatched patterns. A thick plume of long black animal hair sprouts from the top, arching in a sweeping curve. The polished wood contrasts with the wild, coarse hair.

(René De Wolf, Brussels, BE before 1972, sold to René and Odette Delenne)

René [1901-1998] and Odette Delenne [1925-2012], Brussels, BE, 2010, sold to the Cleveland Museum of Art.

The Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH, 2010

Flywhisk

Flywhisk

Africa, Central Africa, Democratic Republic of Congo (most likely), Cabinda, or Republic of the Congo, probably Yombe-style maker

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Flywhisk

Africa, Central Africa, Democratic Republic of Congo (most likely), Cabinda, or Republic of the Congo, probably Yombe-style maker

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Flywhisk

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