I accidently reblogged this post on my other blog, Robbie’s Inspiration. It is supposed to be under my Roberta Writes adult writing banner so I am posting it here too. There are some interesting videos featuring traditional Zulu music and dancing and my rendition of a traditional Zulu story. Apologies to readers who follow me on both blogs.
Last month for Dark Origins, African Myths and Legends, I shared an introduction to the Zulu people of South Africa, the Great Zulu King Shaka and the legend of the Buffalo Thorn tree. If you missed it, you can read it here: https://writingtoberead.com/2022/04/27/dark-origins-african-myths-and-legends-the-zulus-part-1/
This month, I will be sharing information about Zulu beadwork and the messages contained therein as well as a traditional story.
Zulu beadwork
The Zulu people of South Africa have a rich tradition of beadwork. Originally, bone, small horns, shells and small pieces of polished wood and stone were pierced to make beads that were strung together as necklaces and belts.
When the Zulus started trading with the Europeans at the end of the 18th century, glass and ceramic beads were introduced into their beadwork.
Traditionally, both men and women wore beaded belts called umutsha to which a piece of cloth was attached to cover the pubic area. The belts have conical brass buttons that fasten the belt at both ends.
The colours and designs incorporated into Zulu beadwork hold specific meanings. Red beads, for example, signifies intense and jealous passion or eyes that are red from watching for a loved one to return. Yellow signifies contentment, pink or green for poverty or coolness, white for faithfulness and purity and black to indicate a desire to be married.
Continue reading here: https://writingtoberead.com/category/mythology-and-legend/
roberta-writes.com 
Good article, Robbie.
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Thank you, Jacqui. I have a huge collection of beaded African animals.
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It’s a terrific piece here, Robbie!
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Thank you, Annette. YOu are a gem to leave a comment on both blogs. Hugs.
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I popped over and read the post on writingtoberead. The bead work in the images is amazing!
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Thank you, Priscilla. The beadwork of the Zulu people is amazing.
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you mentioned that you have a bunch of beaded African animals Robbie. Do you have a beaded Giraffe?
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Hi Wayne, no, I don’t have a giraffe. I have a buffalo, a warthog, a pelican, a flamingo and a large number of other animals and sea creatures but no giraffe. They are a little on the large side…
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Both their beadwork and music is magical. (K)
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Hi Kerfe, it is lovely. I do enjoy African culture.
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I enjoyed your reading of the Zulu story!! Very interesting! I enjoy these articles – I learn so much.
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Hi Rebecca, I do enjoy sharing about Africa and its people.
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What interesting information and new meanings to color. Black to get married – a little warning, perhaps! 🙂
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