My Africa Nguni Skin Throw

The Bella Vita Nguni Skin throw draws inspiration from the rich traditions of the Nguni people, a collective that includes the AmaXhosa, AmaZulu, and AmaSwazi communities. These groups introduced the ancestors of today’s Nguni cattle to Southern Africa during their migration from East Africa between 600 and 1400 AD.

For centuries, the Nguni people have played a vital role in shaping the social, economic, and spiritual fabric of their societies. The unique beauty of each cow’s hide has been celebrated in their poetry, with distinct names given to specific color patterns. A soft, creamy dun-colored hide is poetically referred to as sour milk, while a brown or red Nguni with large spots and delicate white edges is described as the stones of the Ngoye forest.

Among the most well-known stories of these magnificent cattle is that of King Shaka of the Zulus, who selectively bred them for distinct colour patterns to identify military regiments. This practice ensured clear leadership recognition in battle, with his elite personal guard distinguished by their pure white cowhides, sourced from the Nguni royal herd.