Heddle Pulley

Heddle pulleys are tools used in horizontal looms, a technique almost exclusive to male Guro weavers in Côte d’Ivoire. Although they are primarily functional objects, heddle pulleys demonstrate the Guro weavers’ artistic capabilities. When working in a public place, the pulleys provide opportunities for the weavers to display their weaving and carving skills, potentially inspiring commissions for masks and figures. This example of a heddle pulley with an elongated face and peaceful expression calls to mind a Guro mask. Other scholars understand adorned heddle pulleys for their spiritual essence. This assists the weaver in the creation of beautiful cloths, for which the Guro are well-known.