Zulu

The Zulu are a people of southern Africa, especially associated with KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. Their traditions of dress, beadwork and ceremony developed alongside the history of the Zulu kingdom.

Small beads became large statements. Necklaces, belts and garments combined colour with bold patterns, sometimes expressing personal or social relationships. The meanings were local: one colour chart cannot explain every piece of Zulu beadwork.

The isicholo is a distinctive head covering associated with married women. Earlier styles grew from shaped and dressed hair; later examples used constructed forms decorated with beads. The outline made an important change in a woman's life visible.

Portraits of rulers, warriors and dancers show different ways to dress for an occasion. Feathers, skin, cloth and ornaments could create a powerful appearance. Behind it were skilled makers whose work mattered as much as the people who wore it.