Zulu Isijolane Necklace Sead Beads Msinga Region South Africa Sidley Collection

This Zulu Isijolane Necklace in the Isishunka Style is a prime example of Beadwork from the Msinga region. The people from the Msinga are called Amachunu, after the special region populated by the Mchunu families. The Chunu beadwork is very different from other Zulus and is defined by colors rather than by shape. Made from thousands of glass beads, it is a unique piece as the long strings of beads have been pinched together at various points by safety pins. The multi-colored beads follow the Isishunka style, said to symbolize longevity, with seven distinct colors each carrying a different significance. Green seed beads represent waiting; Black seed beads symbolize the leather skirt worn by a wife; Red-white hearts signify the return of a cattle fee; Pink seed beads convey enduring love; Light Blue seed beads represent freedom and togetherness; Yellow brass studs express beauty.

Recently beadwork has become a symbol of political identity as well, with color and pattern indicating political affiliation. Instead of beads being worn only by the conservative, traditional members of the community, wearing beadwork is increasingly being seen as reclaiming a cultural identity.

Provenance: Niña Sidley Collection

After a long career in publishing, Niña Sidley returned to her first love: collecting the art, artifacts, and textiles of the world’s indigenous peoples. Part of her mission has been to educate others and to honor the extraordinary creativity, ingenuity, and heartfelt messages these hand made works send from their makers. Niña believes this deep respect for tradition and beauty inspires and ties all of us together as one world.

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