It was common for men to do weaving in West African countries. By means of heddle pulleys the weavers separate the warp threads into ‘fans’ by means of foot pedals. Then the weft threads are ‘shot through’ these ‘fans’. Thus, fabric is created. These heddle pulleys were often carved, and with this one, a face can be made out on one of the sides. Often the faces were of goddesses, so the weavers could look at beauty while they work.

Sources: Smithsonian National Museum of African Art