kanju’s Heishi Pillow is adorned with a solid ring of white beads— drilled from ostrich egg shells using centuries old hand techniques— around a single natural turquoise pendant, the design itself echoing the shape of the traditional ‘heishi’ ostrich shell bead. These flat round ostrich shell beads are the oldest bead type discovered in the history of mankind, first unearthed in Tanzania and Namibia and dated at over 70,000 years old.
Beneath thatched roofs and in the shade of mango trees, kanju artisans sew, bead, and embroider South African plush cotton pillow covers in both vibrant and subtle hues. Fabric is embellished with unique trade beads sourced from across Africa, some of them centuries old.
Measurements
Small Square - 18"L x 18"H
Large Square - 24"L x 24"H
Lumbar - 24"L x 14"H
Materials
Cotton, Shells
Colors
Black, White, Dusty Lilac
Each is one-of-a-kind and possesses its own unique personality. Variations between items received and images shown can occur. Each pillow is French-seamed and features a concealed zipper closure.
Origin
Malawi
