In traditional Xhosa culture a wedding is a large ceremony which extends past direct relatives of the bridal couple and can include neighboring villages. A cow (or more) is usually slaughtered to cater for the many mouths. The blood of the cow is also sprinkled across the brides feet; thereby acknowledging the ancient ancestors. This ritual is thought to place the new bride under the protection of the ancestors of the groom and his family and cement the welcoming into the family. If royalty is married, the ceremony is grander, the rituals more pronounced and the locally brewed beer (uqomboti) more flowing. In modern times this ceremony, as well as a “white wedding” are enjoyed to cater for guests across the cultural divides.
Handwoven by Ms. Ntabeleng
Measures approx. 63” x 42”
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