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Beaded Panel (isebebe)

Zandile Ma Ndlovu Dube
South African
Beaded Panel (isibebe)
1969
Glass beads,metal,plastic
Museum Purchase with Harn General Program Endowment Funds
2007.27.1

This beaded panel necklace is the third one made during Zandile Ma Ndlovu Dube’s engagement. It bears the text “abantu izoni” and translates as “people are wicked” and is a reaction to those spreading malicious gossip about the couple. The five strand plaited neckband, isibohph reiterates the old color code, using white (mhlophe) to signify purity of heart, and red, referring to blood and love (bomvu). By wearing this necklace, the man is essentially saying that he is ignoring those who would dissuade him and restating his commitment to marrying the woman.