Masked Figurine Holding a Drum, Possibly a Ocarina (Whistle)

The whistle is a musical instrument that produces sound by blowing air through a small opening. It has been used for various purposes throughout history, including signaling, communication, and music. Whistles have been found in archaeological sites dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Greeks and Romans. They were used by soldiers as a means of communication during battles, and by shepherds to control their flocks.

A wind musical instrument, a type of whistling vessel flute. There are clay, porcelain and wooden ocarinas. The name "ocarina" is applied both to the whole family of whistling flutes and to a specific variety invented in Italy in 1860 by Giuseppe Donati and used in classical music; it is also called the "classical ocarina". Folk ocarinas are used all over the world, in Latin America, China, Africa, Eastern Europe and elsewhere. In many cultures the ocarina is considered a children's toy; in Europe it became popular as such in the mid-19th century.