Significant Figures - Ndebele Doll

From my project based on traditional dolls and figures from around the world, this illustration is inspired by Ndebele dolls.

The Ndebele are one of the smallest tribes in South Africa and these beaded dolls play an important part in Ndebele culture. The dolls are often symbolic of life events for tribe members. For example, during courtship a suitor places a ceremonial doll outside a young woman’s home, signalling his intention to propose to her.

© Zara Picken 2014 www.zaraillustrates.com