Ndebele Itjorholo (Five panelled bridal apron)
Ndebele, South Africa, c. 1950
Cowhide and glass beads
84cm H x 67cm W
Collection Valeria Ianigro
This bridal apron, known as an itjorholo is a ceremonial garment worn by a bride on her wedding day. This piece is an excellent example of the geometric patterns characteristic of Southern Ndebele art. The five panels, referred to as “calves”, are symbolic of fertility.