Source [1,2,5,6]: betbi.org ; “West African Heddle Pulleys.” African Arts 13, no. 2 (1980): 74-75 by Farr, D. Francine
Source [3]: hamillgallery.com
Source [4]: africaandbeyond.com
Source notes [1,2,5,6]: “20th century. Wood, rope 7 1/3 x 2 3/4 x 2 in. (18.5 x 7 x 5 cm). This is a hand-carved figurative pulley that combines, in classic Djimini fashion, a humanoid face and characteristic horns of a savannah buffalo. Used on the traditional narrow-band loom, heddle pulleys are functional objects that ease the movements of the heddles while separating the warp threads and allowing the shuttle to smoothly pass through the layers of thread. Like so many other objects used in everyday activities, these pulleys were often embellished for the weaver’s delight. This wonderful pulley demonstrates the efforts by Djimini carvers into beautifying functional objects. The question naturally arises of why such a seemingly purely functional object would be so beautifully and elaborately carved. It implies that pulleys, like the one in the Bët-bi collection, may have a more complex meaning. They perhaps have a spiritual value - inspiring the weaver in his creative process and in the making of beautiful cloths.”
Source notes [3]: “The finely carved pulleys of masks, heads and figures were intended to protect the weaver and help him produce fine cloth.”
Source notes [4]: “The carved wooden figures serve to guard over the work.”
