The Ndebele Culture

The Ndebele Culture

The Ndebele culture is known  for its distinct beadwork and colourful, geometric mural art.

No one is completely sure of the origins of the South African Ndebele tribe, but it is generally accepted that about 400 years ago they migrated under Chief Muzi from present day KwaZulu-Natal. There are two groups: one found north-east of Johannesburg in the Bronkhorstspruit region and the other in the Limpopo province.

The Ndebele cultural village, made up of residential units, is quite often defined by its striking artwork, which is done by the women which it shows her territory while using art as a form of inspiration for everyday life. The family head  oversees the entire family and, in some cases, his married children and his brothers are permitted to settle in his community which will expand  the residence into a village.

Women also express their status in in a way of ornamenting themselves with beadwork, blankets and other trinkets, becoming more decorative after marriage, showing her faithful devotion to her husband. Distinct jewels are the brass rings that are placed on her neck, arms and legs, which can often weigh up to 20 kilograms.

In the Ndebele tradition the authority over a group is vested in the tribal chief, assisted by an inner or family council and next in this hierarchy are ward heads, followed by the head of the family.

As in many African tribal communities, the Ndebele people strongly believe in ancestral spirits. The worship of those who have died is an intricate ritual, with the living and dead sharing a bond through which the ancestors provide valuable services to those who are alive.

It was in the late 19th century that Ndebele women began to incorporate the distinctive beadwork style in their dress culture.

The beautiful dress and accessories of the Ndebele women reflect their age, social status and love of color. It is an aesthetic cultural declaration that is in everything from the aprons of little girls to the colorful gala blankets and great costumes of married women.

Two things in particular catch the eye. These are the stacked rings worn round the neck, arms and legs - and, most striking of all, the lavish beadwork featuring geometric patterns decorating skirts, tiaras and the long strips that trail behind.

These serve as the inspiration for the mural art of the Ndebele people of South Africa. This vibrant art brightens the eastern Highveld is a talent passed from mother to daughter.

Based on abstract triangular and rectangular shapes, the mural art includes contemporary motifs such as airplanes, car number plates and television aerials. What is remarkable is that all this is achieved freehand without coseptual sketches, rulers or geometric instruments.

The most celebrated of these artists is Esther Mahlangu, who has received international praise. She was commissioned by BMW to paint one of their cars and her most public works are the murals of the Ndebele Open Air Museum at the Botshabelo Historical Village.