Bullroarer ·  Nigeria, Yoruba · ID: 3034577

Description

wood, strongly encrusted greyish brown patina, small remains of kaolin, of flat lancet-shaped form with cut tips, carved with a male/female couple in half relief, dam., minor missing parts, crack (suspension hole), traces of old age and weathering;
the bullroarer is a typical instrument of the “oro” society, whose main task is to punish wrongdoers and witches who may or may not have been sentenced by the “ogboni” or “oshugbo” society. When the members of the “oro” set out at night, the terrifying sound of the bullroarers warns women and children to stay indoors. Bullroarers are whirled round on short cords and make a shrill high-pitched sound, or if they are larger, a deep roaring one.

Comparing literature

Witte, Hans, A Closer Look, Berg en Dal 2004, p. 132, ill. 121