Objet 
6 June 2019
Objet 
664

Guro artist

Heddle pulley

Côte d'Ivoire, Early 20th Century
carved wood 8 h × 3¼ w × 2¾ d in (20 × 8 × 7 cm)
estimate: $500–700
result: $2,500
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provenance: Merton Simpson Gallery, New York | Donald Morris Gallery, Detroit | Private Collection, New York

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Heddle pulleys are functional objects used on weaving looms that also serve to display the weaver's carving skills to those passing by. The Guro peoples are celebrated for their woven cotton fabrics and elevating this simple everyday object reflects the commitment the artists have to their craft. This example was likely made for local use, retains its bobbin and is reminiscent of the abstracted bird forms often seen in Senufo heddle pulleys and masks just north of the Guro peoples in Côte d'Ivoire.

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