Arrow whistle (unknown date of creation)

ARROW WHISTLE
Purchased in Bengbu, Anhui province
Date uncertain
Inventory number: XLIX:I:A.h.49.

This non-lethal arrowhead has three keels between each of its three flat surfaces that end in a blunt, rounded point. There is a hole on each of its three flat surfaces. Wind would pass through these holes, producing a high-pitched sound, when flying through the air. They were used by commanders for signaling purposes in order to communicate with troops on the battlefield. It is difficult to date this arrow whistle. Such objects have been used in China since at least the Han dynasty, and probably much earlier, and their design has changed very little.