Description

The Ndebele of South Africa are known for their elaborate beadwork and vibrant painting. These practices are almost exclusively practiced by Ndebele women, who are taught during puberty as part of the female initiation process. Beadworks speak to individual creativity and collective local aesthetics.

Maces are used for dancing during important occasions as symbols of power. As fashion has progressed with style and local aesthetics, so has the design of beadwork on the mace. This older mace's age can be recognized by its tight beadwork, use of small beads, and modest design. The ball and rod style of mace is one of many forms that these dancing accessories can take.