Necklace Item Number: K5.58 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Narrow band of blue white, and black beads. Tassel of blue, white, and black beads at the top secured by a white button.
History Of Use
In Xhosa society, people are ranked in the social hierarchy in ten year increments, in addition to their sex. Young, uninitiated girls, and married or working women are identified by differing dress and adornment. Ingcenge are worn almost exclusively by older, married and highly-regarded women. The colour combination was typically reserved for older women, but could also be worn by men; it was prominent among Xhosa elders.
Specific Techniques
Ingcenge are strung by women using a threading technique called ukuhlahla.
Item History
- Made in South Africa
- Owned by Union College before July 1960
- Received from Union College (Donor) during July 1960
What
Who
- Culture
- Xhosa
- Previous Owner
- Union College
- Received from
- Union College (Donor)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- South Africa
When
- Ownership Date
- before July 1960
- Acquisition Date
- during July 1960
Other
- Item Classes
- beadwork
- Condition
- fair
- Accession Number
- 0025/0085