Zulu Doll 'A'

Zulu dolls from the Msinga area were made by girls at the time of their engagement, then worn on her neck during special occasions. If the owner visited her prospective in-laws she would put the doll’s hair over it’s face as a sign of respect. After she married, a tuft of red wool would be put on the doll’s head which made the statement; I’m married. The doll would be put in a place of honor in her hut and eventually would be given to her child or grandchild.
These pictures were likely taken in the 1960's and would have been commissioned by the girls to send to their boyfriends who lived in the urban centers. Each girl holds a related doll.