A rare imported commodity, glass beads symbolize wealth and importance in South African cultures for centuries, and were exclusively distributed by the region's oba (king).
 
As beads became gradually more accessible throughout the 19th century, they began to displace the organic materials used in traditional art and attire. This colorful example of African beadwork is a ceremonial doll of the Ndebele people of South Africa. These dolls are made with tall, cylindrical wooden bodies, wrapped in cotton and highly decorated with various fabrics, metal rings, and cascading beadwork. One of several dolls used in Ndebele culture to commemorate transitional phases of life, a ceremonial doll is used as part of courtship traditions.
 
A young man will place the doll on his partner's doorstep to indicate that he's ready for marriage. If she accepts his proposal, she'll return the doll to his home.
From the collection of Frances and Gary Comer.