Walter Sisulu University
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    Ubulunga bobudlezana

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    A neckband crafted from carefully woven strands of white hair, meticulously secured in elegant ovals and bordered with a buttonhole stitch. The hair is sourced from the tail of a heifer cow known as "inkomo yobulunga" within the isiXhosa-speaking community. This remarkable necklace is specially designed for nursing mothers to wear during their confinement period, symbolising tradition, care, and support during this important phase of motherhood.Purchased from Mrs Joan BrosterForms part of: Walter Sisulu University Beadwork Collectio

    Isiphondo

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    In this captivating depiction, the medicine horn takes the form of a small, exquisite bottle, meticulously adorned with a stunning mosaic crafted from an array of green, white, and navy beads that catch the light beautifully. Cascading from the neck of the bottle, a necklace composed of vibrant green and pristine white beads seamlessly intertwines, highlighted by the shimmering elegance of a lustrous pearl button that serves as the centrepiece. Around the base of the bottle, a whimsical fringe of jet-black pearls dances delicately, imparting an air of sophistication and grace. This intricately designed piece is not merely ornamental; it is traditionally donned by diviners around the enchanting locale of Coffee Bay in the Mqanduli District, serving as a ceremonial emblem of their revered craft.Purchased from Mrs Joan BrosterForms part of: Walter Sisulu University Beadwork Collectio

    Ihobho

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    Two ornate brass curtain rings are adorned with a flat strip of intricate beading, which catches the light beautifully. Delicate short bead streamers cascade from the rings, adding a touch of elegance. This stunning design has its roots in the amaMfengu subcultural group, seamlessly blending with the rich heritage of the isiXhosa-speaking community in the Peddie district.Purchased from Mrs Joan BrosterForms part of: Walter Sisulu University Beadwork Collectio

    Inkciyo yentombi

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    The girdle worn by a maiden is a remarkable testament to tradition and familial bonds, embodying both ornate beauty and profound symbolism. This exquisite garment features an intricately crafted apron adorned with a flat bead strip and three rows of delicate bead fringes, creating a mesmerising tapestry of colour and texture. Supported by two rows of brass washers threaded on goat skin thongs, each element of this girdle carries its own significance, echoing the wisdom and heritage of generations past. The tradition of passing down these brass washers from grandmother to favourite granddaughter, typically during puberty, adds a deeply personal touch to the garment, symbolising the continuation of familial legacy and the transmission of ancestral knowledge. As a young woman dons this girdle, she steps into her role within the community with grace and reverence, embracing the journey from adolescence to womanhood. Throughout her life, from the bloom of youth until the stage of menopause, the girdle remains a cherished symbol of her connection to her lineage and the enduring strength of familial ties.Purchased from Mrs Joan BrosterForms part of: Walter Sisulu University Beadwork Collectio

    IBhekile yophatha izinto zokutshaya

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    This billy can is a small tin container designed for storing and carrying smoking accessories. This particular billy can is adorned with intricate beadwork, featuring a covering of beads and decorative elements such as pearl buttons and pink wool pompoms, as well as three bands of beads on the sides. The can is equipped with a well-fitting lid and a sturdy wire handle for easy transport. It is intended for use by individuals aged 18 years or older and can hold a variety of items such as sweets, tobacco, and matches.Purchased from Mrs Joan BrosterForms part of: Walter Sisulu University Beadwork Collectio

    Ibhekile yophatha izinto zokutshaya

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    This object in question is a receptacle designed for the preservation of smoking accoutrements, encompassing tobacco, igniting implements, and occasionally confectioneries. The described billy can is distinguished by its adornment with bands of beads and further embellished with bead trimmers, pearl buttons, and pink woollen pompoms. This multifaceted decorative approach not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the container but also reflects a certain cultural or personal significance attributed to the act of smoking and the items associated with it.Purchased from Mrs Joan BrosterForms part of: Walter Sisulu University Beadwork Collectio

    Isidanga

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    The intricate necklace consists of 24 strands of delicate light turquoise beads held in place by black beads. Traditionally, it is worn as a shoulder strap by married men from isiXhosa-speaking subcultural groups like abaThembu, amaGcaleka, and amaMpondomise. It's worth noting that the amaMpondo cultural group does not traditionally incorporate this style of necklace.Purchased from Mrs Joan BrosterForms part of: Walter Sisulu University Beadwork Collectio

    Umgangxo

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    The body harness is a testament to its unique design, featuring a striking combination of shimmering white beads, navy lines, and star motifs. The 21 vibrant strings, woven intricately to symbolise a fresh start, create a tapestry of colour that is truly one-of-a-kind. The addition of lustrous pearl buttons adds a touch of sophistication, making this piece a must-have for those who appreciate originality and creativity.Purchased from Mrs Joan BrosterForms part of: Walter Sisulu University Beadwork Collectio

    Isipaji somntwana

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    An infant's purse delicately crafted from soft, colourful fabrics. It features a twisted thread necklet, elegantly fashioned to hang gently around a tiny neck. Suspended from this necklet is a miniature purse, lovingly handmade by the mother for her little one. Inside the purse lies a small bundle of protective medicine, carefully acquired from the local traditional healer, intended to safeguard the baby with ancient wisdom and care.Purchased from Mrs Joan BrosterForms part of: Walter Sisulu University Beadwork Collectio

    Ikhubalo

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    Adorned with an array of intricately crafted beads, this charm necklace showcases traditional wooden medicine, gracefully embellished with ornate fringes of shimmering black pearls. It is elegantly suspended from a delicate beaded necklet, featuring a luminous pearl button that adds a touch of sophistication to its design. Each element of the necklace harmonises to create a striking piece that reflects both cultural heritage and artistic craftsmanship.Purchased from Mrs Joan BrosterForms part of: Walter Sisulu University Beadwork Collectio

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