From the Ndebele women in South Africa, the 'Nguba,' or Marriage Blanket, was usually made from a Middelburg blanket which was customized with elaborate beadwork by the owner throughout her married life. It became a spectacular item as the woman continued to add beadwork, and the original blanket may have worn away and been replaced several times. These strips of beadwork adorned such a blanket.
Due to its age, there are some natural wears and tears and missing beads. It is 4 separate pieces that were once whole, and like all this beadwork, it is sold in as-in condition.
Dimensions:
Top 7 ¾" x 20 ¼"
2) Left bottom: 8" x 10 ½"
3) Middle: 7 ½" x 11"
4) Right bottom: 7 ½" x 5 ⅝"
