Ndebele Ceremonial Doll

More than 70 Ndebele women who live mostly in remote areas where there are very few job opportunities earn an independent income from this project. The Ndebele women producing this beadwork, work individually from their homes and in doing so are able to care for their children and retain their traditional lifestyles These dolls are from the Ndebele Tribe in Southern Africa. One of the smallest tribes of the region, the Ndebele are noted for their painted homes of brilliant colors that stand out in the drab countryside. Their clothing is similarly colorful. The bead work on these Ndebele dolls is as detailed as the clothing of the women themselves. During courtship, a suitor will place a doll outside a young woman's hut, indicating his intention to propose marriage to her. When a young woman is preparing to marry, she is given a doll that she names and cares for. Her first child is then named for the doll. In addition to strengthening the Ndebele cultural identity, the beaded Ndebele dolls are now an important export item and much needed source of income for the Ndebele women

Dimensions : Doll stands 26cm tall