“Kuwaloka” means cross or crossing in Chichewa, a Bantu language spoken in Malawi where kanju’s Kuwaloka Trade Bead Pillow is made. Cowrie shells, bone beads, and wooden seed beads in playfully improvised patterns cross and intersect, meeting in a spectacular single central brass trade bead.
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" x 18"
Large Square - 24" x 24"
Lumbar - 24" x 14"
Materials
Cotton, Bronze, Glass, Shells
Colors
Cream, Indigo Grey, Crimson Red, Black
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
