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 Featured here is a carved-handled flywhisk, or “Mugishu” as it is called in Swahili, from Kenya, East Africa. Traditionally known as one of the symbols of status and privilege in African courts, the tribal kings in many places in Africa had their attendants or slaves use these to prevent the royal skin from being bitten. This whisk was made by an Akamba man, from Mariakani area, in southern Kenya. He masterfully hand carved this handle into a choice piece of folk art, portraying a tribal man or woman, (I have both). This figurine handle was hand crafted from a single block of rich teak wood, which was then painted, using dyes made from berries, bark, coconut oil and other natural elements. The carver’s younger brother fashioned the long hair, which I was told is from cow tail, and attached it to the handle using copper wire. A leather strap for carrying is attached to the back of the wooden handle, using brass tacks. This is a traditional symbol, a functional display item and a decorative piece of folk art, which will add dimension to any African art collection.
This beautiful black fly whisk is 30" long.
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