Pair of Xhosa Smoking Pipes ,South Africa.

Ex South African Collection 20th CenturyPair of Xhosa Smoking Pipes Handcrafted Wood & Beaded Tribal Art This exquisite pair of vintage Xhosa smoking pipes originates from the Eastern Cape region of South Africa and dates back to the 20th century. Hand-carved from wood and beautifully adorned with traditional glass beadwork, these ceremonial pipes known as umbholos, reflect the rich cultural heritage of the Xhosa people. Each pipe features intricate bead patterns in vibrant hues of red, white, blue, pink and black, symbolizing identity, status, and ancestral connection. One pipe measures approximately 34 cm in length and 11 cm in width, while the other is 25 cm long and 10 cm wide. These pipes were traditionally used in rituals and storytelling, often by elders, and are now highly collectible pieces of African tribal art.