Phephetu

Notes

This item was made in the 1960/1970s in the Siyabuswa in the Mpumalanga province. The item is made from a hard material to ensure that it rests steadily on the lap of the woman using it as it is used as a hard and steady surface to work on, for example, to do beadwork on.

In Ndebele culture, a young girl entering puberty traditionally receives a stiff, beaded apron crafted by her mother or grandmother. This garment, often made from hardened leather or canvas, symbolizes her unmarried status and is worn until marriage. The beadwork on this apron typically reflects the aspirations her family holds for her future, such as depictions of modern homes or urban landscapes, indicating hopes for a prosperous life. The colours, patterns, and bead types used in these aprons vary across regions and time periods, reflecting the dynamic nature of Ndebele beadwork traditions. The incorporation of vibrant Czech glass beads, introduced through European trade, has become a hallmark of this intricate art form.