Zulu Beer Strainer

Mid 20th Century

 

                       

 

The strainer is 38 centimetres tall or 15 inches.

 

 

           

 

We know of approximately 20 examples made by the artists hand. All were collected in Zululand, though the metal work is much like strainers made by the Sotho.

 

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 Tsonga Double Chain Link Ladles

 

Circa 1900

 

 

Detailed with Pokerwork

 

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These were rediscovered in England and likely date to 1900.

 

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Zulu Snuff Spoons

Circa 1900

 

Offered mounted as a trio.

 

     

Fine detailed designs decorate each.

 

The centre example has a deeply carved bowl.

 

 

 

 Two others sold individually.

 

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Zulu Double Sided Spoon / Ladle

 

 

 

Early 20th Century Collected

 

 

            

 

Spoons like this were displayed in the home as trophies and soon became heirlooms.

 

 

            

 

Both the lack of patina and style, confirm the object dates to the early 20th century.

 

 

 

Called an  "Izinkezo and or Ukhezo"

 

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Ba Rotsi Plain - Western Zambia

 

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This example was obtained from the Bruno Walters collection of Southern African Art. Many related examples depict wildlife, so we suspect the triangular decoration represents the tail of a crocodile.

 

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Mangbetu or Azande Ivory Spoon

 

Early 20th Century Collected

 

 

    

 

Judging from the attire of the male drummer, the spoon is from the Mangbetu or Azande region of the former Belgium Congo. The old used patina suggests a collection date of 1920 or before.

 

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