This sculpture has a fantastic scaly surface texture, a variation on Edronce’s trademark style of geometric patterning.
The njuzu [water spirit] is an important part of Shona mythology. They are supposed to live in deep lakes and rivers, and may lure the unwary person into the water. Those who return from this experience are likely to become a n’anga [witch doctor], as they have travelled between the physical and spiritual worlds.
Njuzu are thought of as mermaids, human on the top half and fish-like below, and are a common theme in sculpture in Zimbabwe. Each artist has their own personal way of representing them.
Springstone is a hard variety of serpentine stone. It is an excellent sculpture medium, as it has a dense internal structure with very few flaws.
