khomitshi (beaded panel), unrecorded Ndebele artist

Exhibition Label:
"Roots and Journeys: Encountering Global Arts and Cultures," Jul-2011, Nancy Mahaney
The Ndebele people of South Africa are well-known for bold graphic designs that decorate the exterior walls of their homes. The tradition of painting the exterior walls of the kraals, or small villages where the Ndebele live, developed during the 20th century. This custom arose partly as a means to establish a unique social identity after decades of living among fractured communities dispersed by the aftermath of the Boer Wars in the late 1800s.

The geometric patterns, symmetry, and colors of Ndebele beadworks are similar to mural art and communicated the wearer’s identity. In addition to identifying tribal and family lineage, Ndebele beadwork can also indicate a woman’s age, wealth and marital status. This selection of beadwork would have belonged to a married woman. For example, the small beaded panel, called a khomitshi, is worn over a leather cape as part of a bride’s ensemble, while the beaded dance wand, or dondolo, is carried by a bride and used during special occasions for the rest of her life.

Exhibition Label:
"For Life's Sake: Arts from Africa," Oct-1983, Reinhild Kauenhoven Janzen
A beaded panel was worn over the back apron. This one is of particularly fine workmanship. Each Ndebele village or kraal has its own characteristic color combinations, so that the beaded garments identify the wearer's social and economic status, as well as her place of origin or location.