Ananse Village: African Crafts and Textiles

Africa is a continent rich in artistic expression. From the beautiful Ilala palm baskets made by members of the Zulu tribe in South Africa, traditional tonga basket from Zambia, the percussive traditions of the djembe, brekete , ashiko, djun-djun, balaphone, kpanolgo, atsimevu and don-don drums of West Africa, to the magnificent kente cloth, bologanfini (mudcloth), kuba cloth and batik textiles of the continent, the cultural heritage of Africa is expressed.

We are proud to offer the finest traditional African crafts produced in a fair trade environment. By working directly with village artisans we are able to positively affect the economic development in the most needy areas. Ananse Village is dedicated to supporting small scale production by talented craftspeople. A portion of our profits helps provide medical care and educational opportunities to the communities we work with.

Speaking With Beads: Zulu Arts from Southern Africa

Speaking With Beads: Zulu Arts from Southern Africa

Editorial Reviews

From Booklist
Anthropologist Preston-Whyte and photographer Jean Morris combine talents to create one of the first mass-audience books on the beauty and meaning of South African beadwork. Morris, having traveled twice to the eastern seaboard of southern Africa, shows via color photographs how much of the art has changed; whereas Preston-Whyte writes in lay language of the mystical powers, religious ceremonies, and fashion significance of these unique body decorations. Documented here are both new and old styles of bead adornment as well as the accompanying traditions and rites in which they play a part. A nontechnical, elegant glimpse into South African ways and means. Barbara Jacobs

African Elegance

African Elegance

Product Description
In Africa, beaded ornaments may mark an individual's progress through life, and intricate woven fabrics chronicle the deeds of warriors and kings. "African Elegance" delves into the ways in which such traditional objects as masks, jewelry, and wooden vessels are used in contemporary African society. From the vibrant, carved coffins of Ghana and the treasures made by sixteenth-century Benin metal smiths to the sleek objects in serpentine crafted by the Shona sculptors of Zimbabwe, "African Elegance" dynamically explores how native Africans display themselves, exchange messages, and tell stories through craft. An object as beautiful as the work it celebrates, "African Elegance" is a stunningly photographed chronicle of art and personal adornment.