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This is the bira, a traditional ceremony in Shona culture. The men are gathered together, drinking homemade beer from a clay pot. They will pour libations, offerings to the spirits made by pouring beer on the ground. The whole community, based around an extended patrilineal family, comes together to communicate with the spirits. There is singing and dancing and traditional music, and the ceremony can last through the night.
This tremendous sculpture is an early example of the work of the late great Joseph Ndandarika. Joseph kept strong ties to his rural family home and to Shona cultural traditions and spiritual beliefs; indeed, these are often the inspiration for his sculptures.
Joseph’s work rarely comes onto the open market, as most pieces are prized possessions in private collections. Therefore, this is a super opportunity to acquire a really impressive example of his work. Clearly, it would make a great addition to any serious Shona sculpture collection.
Guruve is offering The Bira for sale on behalf of a private collector who acquired it in 2012, from a gallery in Zimbabwe. This particular sculpture had been part of the gallery’s Permanent Collection for many years. It bears the Permanent Collection number on the back, next to the artist’s signature and the date (see photos of the back).
A certificate of authenticity from the Harare gallery with its identifying number (and also one from Guruve) accompany the piece.
Imperial measurements are:
15 7/10″ x 17 7/10″ x 5 9/10″ and weight 98lbs
UK clients are welcome to collect from us in Hertfordshire, or arrange a viewing by appointment, or contact us to purchase.
We offer worldwide shipping via tracked courier in a fully lined made-to-measure crate.
Overseas clients please email us for a shipping quote;
remember to include your delivery address (including post/zip code) and contact phone number.
