Early 20th Century Zulu Carving of a Bull, South Africa
About
A large 19th-early 20th century North Nguni carving of a bull.
The ancestors of Nguni cattle were brought by the Xhosa, Zulu and Swazi people, during their migration to Southern Africa between 600 and 1400 AD. Since then, these animals have played an important social and economic role in the development of these societies and are used as a bride's dowry. The number of animals held by a village or individual determined much of their importance to the rest of the world. King Shaka of the Zulus understood this cultural and economic importance and seized control of the Nguni herds on his dominions. Shaka also bred the Ngunis according to color patterns in order to produce skins for the several regiments of his army, henceforward recognized by them.
This early example, with black patches produced by burning the wood with a hot poker, was probably made to serve as a toy for a Zulu child or possible as a souvenir for a British soldier or missionary.
Provenance: Seward Kennedy, London.
Details
- In the Style Of
- Place of Origin
- Date of ManufactureLate 19th-Early 20th Century
- Period
- Materials and Techniques
- Condition
- WearWear consistent with age and use.
- DimensionsH 8.5 in. x W 17 in. x D 4 in.H 21.59 cm x W 43.18 cm x D 10.16 cm
- Seller LocationNew York, NY
- Reference NumberLU104802183142
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