Click for Image (30K)
The sangoma is a very special element in traditional Zulu societies. In essence, the sangoma is a healer and a kind of mage, both thought of as a healer, a predictor of the future and a respected elder. It is interesting that the beadwork language extends to the tools used by the sangoma and it conveys messages that are applicable to the user.
A very special bead-covered gourd or ishungu, acquired from an isangoma (diviner, specialist in traditional medicine) to induce fertility where women have difficulty in conceiving. Similarly named but less sacred objects are often used to carry herbs and medicines, protecting the wearer from misfortune of various kinds.
This particular specimen is very old and is unknown to modern beadworkers.
An ishungu or medicine vessel of a more common kind than than shown above.
Here is a print showing some of these being worn by an isangoma.
Click for Image (95K)