Snuff Container Item Number: Ab323 a-b from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Necklace with snuff holder at bottom. Necklace strand consists of a fibre roll with sections of black and white beads sewn on the surface. Tubular pendant is wooden, and has a plug in each end, one of which can be removed (part b). Snuff pendant is wrapped with sections of black and white beads and has a red section of beading in the middle. A metal bead hangs from a white fibre cord at the top of the necklace.

History Of Use

Snuff container (ishungu, plural amashungu) worn by men, who receive them as a gift from their fiancee. In the early 20th century beaded items were primarily used for courting Zulu adults, and to display wealth and social standing. To initiate a relationship, women give gifts of beaded items to suitors; the more elaborate and extravagant the beads, the more social currency is ascribed to the accessory. In the case of amashungu, extravagance and pleasure are on full display and denote its wearer as a high-status, wealthy, and culturally-relevant individual. As a symbol of courting status, amashungu are designed to facilitate effective and peaceful socialization between the male suitor and his soon-to-be in-laws.

Specific Techniques

Amashungu are made using a beadworking technique called gongqoloza, which involves wrapping a string of already-strung beads around a core.

Item History

What

Name
Snuff Container
Identification Number
Ab323 a-b
Type of Item
container
Material
glass, fibre, wood and metal
Overall
height 30.0 cm, width 11.0 cm, depth 4.0 cm

Who

Culture
Zulu
Previous Owner
B.C. Provincial Museum
Received from
B.C. Provincial Museum (Transferring institution)

Where

Holding Institution
MOA: University of British Columbia
Made in
South Africa

When

Creation Date
between 1900 and 1930
Ownership Date
before November 17, 1977
Acquisition Date
on November 17, 1977

Other

Item Classes
beadwork
Condition
fair
Accession Number
0424/0023 a-b