2175 and 2176: ivory whistles of the Pende people in southwestern Congo-Kinshasa (Bandundu and Kasaï). Bought by the mim between 1907 and 1910. Seller unknown.
The form of both whistles refers to a Western pierced key. A lateral finger hole allows for pitch modulation.
Worn as necklaces, these whistles are mainly used as communication instruments, especially during hunting expeditions, and during circumcision ceremonies.