Description
Material
Beads & Draw Cord
A striking fusion of craft-driven design and contemporary aesthetics, this handcrafted statement piece is made from high-quality materials, including sustainably sourced wooden beads and durable, powder-coated mild steel. Designed for both visual impact and longevity, it seamlessly blends traditional craftsmanship with modern functionality.
Our designs feature mild steel, a material known for its strength, versatility, and ability to be shaped into intricate forms while maintaining durability. To enhance its resilience and aesthetic appeal, the steel is powder-coated, providing a smooth, long-lasting finish that resists rust, scratches, and wear over time.
We also use carefully selected wooden beads, chosen for their sustainability, durability, and organic beauty.
By combining the strength and sleek finish of powder-coated mild steel with the natural elegance of handcrafted wooden beads, we create designs that are both environmentally responsible and visually captivating.
Additional Information
- Each light pendant is handmade so designs may vary slightly.
- This light pendant excludes a globe/bulb and needs a E27 screw-in bulb.
- This light pendant is fitted with a lamp holder, ceiling cup, and mounting cables.
- This light pendant is ceiling-mounted and requires installation.
- The bead colours may vary slightly and are subject to availability.
Mash T honours the rich tradition of Zulu maidens through our innovative use of beading, where beads are far more than decorative elements. They are powerful symbols of identity, emotion and tradition.
Ukuhlola is an ancient Zulu practice of communication through beadwork, traditionally used by Zulu maidens to convey messages of love, emotion, and intent. The term “ukulele” translates to “to communicate” or “to examine” in Zulu, but within the context of beadwork, it specifically refers to the intricate art of sending messages through colour and pattern combinations.
In Zulu culture, beads are not merely decorative; they are symbolic carriers of meaning. Historically, young Zulu maidens would craft intricate beaded pieces known as “izincu” (love letters) to communicate their feelings to potential suitors or loved ones. This was a discreet and poetic form of expression, allowing women to convey their emotions without the constraints of social norms that limited open courtship.
Each bead colour had a specific meaning, and the way the beads were strung together created a narrative. The interpretations could be quite complex, as the combination of colors and patterns added layers of meaning. Here are some traditional colour meanings:
- White: Purity, innocence, and hope for a harmonious relationship.
- Blue: Faithfulness and longing.
- Red: Love, passion, and an intense emotional bond.
- Black: Sorrow or longing, possibly indicating separation.
- Green: Contentment and happiness.
- Yellow: Wealth and prosperity or a desire for marriage.
- Pink: Promise or intention of commitment.
- Orange: Adoration and admiration.
Ukuhlola was more than just a romantic gesture; it was also a means of navigating social and cultural expectations. It allowed women to express their agency and emotions within a patriarchal society. It also fostered a sense of community and identity, as the knowledge of colour meanings and patterns was passed down through generations.
Today, Zulu beads are celebrated as a symbol of heritage and identity. Many modern designers are drawing inspiration from this ancient practice, blending traditional techniques with contemporary styles to create wearable art that still communicates powerful messages.
Ukuhlola is a testament to the creativity and resilience of women who, through resourcefulness and ingenuity, crafted a language that transcended words. It is a beautiful reminder of the power of tradition in shaping cultural identity and emotional expression.
Care Instructions
To clean, simply use a feather duster.
Delivery & Shipping
Leadtime
It is made to order with a lead time of 6–8 weeks from receipt of payment. This excludes the holiday period from the 15th December to 15th January. No deliveries will be made on weekends or public holidays.
Circumstances that are unforeseen or beyond our control may result in changes to the agreed delivery date and time. You will be informed by telephone and alternative arrangements will be made.
Shipping
The volume of each package will vary depending on the piece and number of items ordered. Shipping costs will be calculated during the checkout process.
