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Power of Hand-Carved Jade Elephant

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While many see African figurines as mere decorative pieces, they often carry profound meanings. Take jade elephants , for example. These aren't just aesthetic objects—they serve as conduits for the rich symbolism associated with jade, a stone cherished for its attributes of purity and serenity. In Africa, the stone's significance expands to include wisdom, stability, and harmony, enriching any space it occupies. Let's explore the layered significance of jade elephants.   The transformative properties of jade   Jade has always been associated with tranquillity and is believed to foster wisdom. It's more than just a protective stone—it brings a harmonious energy that shields both the person and their surroundings. When this stone is artistically carved into the shape of an elephant, its positive influences—like friendship and good fortune—are magnified. Moreover, jade is thought to encourage emotional balance by neutralizing negative thoughts and calming the mind,

Jewellery Around the World: African Jewellery

  Jewellery has always been an integral part of human culture, representing a wide range of meanings and symbolism that vary across different regions and communities. African jewellery is a prime example of this diversity, offering a rich tapestry of styles, materials, and techniques that reflect the continent's vibrant cultural heritage. From intricately beaded necklaces to elaborate brass ornaments, African jewellery has evolved over thousands of years, drawing inspiration from religious, social, and economic contexts.   Jewellery-making is an ancient craft that has been practised worldwide for centuries. In Africa, jewellery holds a significant place in the continent's diverse cultural heritage. It has been used by African tribes for a variety of purposes, including adornment, communication, and as a symbol of status and identity.   The materials used are varied and depend on the tribe's location, resources, and cultural beliefs. African beads—which can be ma

Add a Touch of Tradition and Authenticity to Your Home with African Baskets

  African baskets have long been a part of African culture and tradition. Rather than just being décor, these baskets play a significant role in Africa’s environmental and economic landscape and are widely used for agricultural practices like sifting and carrying crops. You can have your own set of African baskets, adding a touch of authenticity to your home. Here are just a few examples: ·          Ndebele/Matabele Tribe Matopo baskets Ndebele tribe baskets are like nothing you’ve ever seen before. Unlike most traditional baskets that are made with weaved vines and leaves, these unique pieces of art are hand-carved from Kiaat wood. This one-of-a-kind technique results in a beautiful, textured wooden bowl with majestic patterns and colors. Inspired heavily by nature, these thick wooden baskets often depict wild animals such as elephants, rhinos, and leopards. ·          Shona tribe baskets The Shona tribe is indigenous to South Africa, found primarily in Zimbabwe. The tr

Discover the Exquisite Craftsmanship of Authentic African Baskets by African Angel Art

Baskets are far more than just practical tools for storage or transportation. They can embody a rich tapestry of culture and history, reflecting the beliefs and values of the community or tribe that created them. This cultural richness is vividly present in every African basket at African Angel Art. Each of our baskets narrates a unique story through its design and craftsmanship. They aren't merely woven containers but are expressions of African heritage and tradition. As you continue to explore, you'll uncover and appreciate the exceptional artistry behind our authentic, high-quality African baskets.   A showcase of artistic skills and traditional weaving methods   Each  African basket  is a one-of-a-kind work of art with the artisan’s signature and weaving technique that makes it extra special. Weaving is an art form that requires an eye for detail, precision, and patience. Plus, it involves the careful selection of materials to ensure an aesthetically pleasing and

Know all About African Culture, Statues and Tribal Decor

  A majority of African sculptures showcase wooden figures resembling human forms, although they may also depict stylized and abstracted shapes and may be carved out of stone. This exquisite art form spans centuries, from ancient tools to contemporary masterpieces, revered and appreciated by art enthusiasts worldwide. The purposes of these sculptures are varied, ranging from bringing fertility, rain, and bountiful harvests to warding off disease, natural calamities, and evil spirits. They also aid in social decisions and judgments, commemorate important events, and make powerful political statements.   The Shona Tribe is renowned for its incredible craftsmanship in the art of sculpting. The Shona people are the largest ethnic community in Zimbabwe, Africa, with the name Shona referring to a multi-clan group of people. The emergence of the Shona sculpture movement dates back to the mid-1900s, thanks in significant part to the efforts of English artist Frank McEwen. His tireless dedi