The colors and triangular patterns shown in this beaded bangle are a common subtype of Zulu beaded works that feature white, dark blue, light blue, black, and red designs, and one of the functions of wearable beadwork is to show characteristics of the wearer through such specific patterns and colors. A Ndebele woman may make beaded jewelry as decorations for her body and to show her status as an individual in her society, and these may be related to courtship and marriage. For example, certain types of beaded jewelry and certain patterns may indicate that she has just been married, whether or not she has children, and even whether or not she is a widow and is ready to marry again. Beadwork like this may also be given by women to men. If a man collects a large number of beaded objects, this indicates that he is highly admired. Researched by Kylei Giles

 

 

For more information, you may contact the researcher(s) noted in the title of this exhibit entry, or Dr. Billie Follensbee, the professor of the course, at BillieFollensbee@MissouriState.edu