African Heritage: Objects That Originate From Africa and Show Its Vibrant Culture
Africa is an amazing continent, home to some of the most interesting cultures worldwide. Over the years, Africa has directly contributed to bringing more innovative products to the world and has made important gifts to the global culture and economy. From food to luxury objects and wellness products, we have a lot to be thankful for.
We need to promote African heritage, as sometimes it receives few merits, and some might also not be aware of its origins. This is why we must acknowledge all the products that originated from Africa and then made their way to the world.
Ready to discover more about African products? Keep reading, and let us take you on an adventure through past times.
African net sponges
These exfoliating objects have taken over the world in recent times, but do you know that they have been used for centuries by African communities? Nowadays, these African net sponges are some of the most beloved objects that don't miss from the wellness routine of ladies worldwide because they offer the best exfoliation.
Before the African net sponge became the star of the internet, this object was part of West African traditions, representing a household staple from the personal hygiene routine. Bathing in Africa is an entire ritual, which, besides rinsing the body, is a process in which individuals also want to promote blood circulation, remove impurities, and let their skin shine. At first, this net sponge was named sapo, and the first products of this kind were created from fishing nets.
Before it transformed into a trend on the internet, this sponge had humble origins, and it went through several key transformations over the years so that we can benefit from its final form. One of the most notable changes of this kind is going from natural fibers to synthetic nylon. Creating these sponges from durable nylon mesh helped African communities enjoy these products for a longer time. Now, these products have become popular worldwide, and they are part of the exfoliating rituals and are essential products for having smooth and shiny skin.
Waist beads
Waist beads also have African origins and are timeless accessories to showcase the beauty of African ladies. These waist beads have a profound spiritual and cultural significance, and they are one of the fantastic gifts that Africa has offered to the world. Waist beads date back to the 15th century, and they originated from countries like Nigeria, Senegal, and Ghana. In the past, they symbolized sensuality, femininity, and fertility. Additionally, in some tribes in Ghana, these waist beads were offered to young girls to mark their transition into womanhood. Other than this, in different African cultures, women wear these accessories to help attract positive energies and keep away negative spirits. Moreover, they were also passed down to generations so that they could better connect the young with their ancestors.
The color of these waist beads was very important, and each color symbolized something else. For example, red represents passion, confidence, and vitality, black symbolizes elegance, power, and protection, and blue is a motif for spirituality, peace, and emotional healing.
Now, waist beads are worn by ladies worldwide because they are beautiful accessories that promote body positivity. This is why you can now see ladies of all cultures and sizes wearing these amazing accessories. They are also practical, as they can better monitor weight fluctuations, as the waist beads can get tighter or looser around the waist.
Kente fabric
Kente fabric also originates from Africa, and it is a heritage that we must thank Africa for. It came from West Africa, more precisely from Ghana and the Ashanti people. Royals wore this fabric. Up to this moment, Kente is one of the most important cloths from Africa, and it celebrates the intricate patterns and dazzling colors that the entire African culture has started to be associated with.
At first, this fabric was used exclusively by royalty during important ceremonies, where each color held a special notion. Now, this fabric has become an African heritage for communities worldwide, and each material is a testament to the unique creativity of this continent. Plus, the Kente cloth has made waves in the world and has gained international recognition, being integrated even by haute couture brands.
African Masks
Africa is also known for its traditional masks, which were used in plenty of cultures in this region, including those from the Kalahari and Sahara deserts. These masks had many social roles and could be used in ceremonies, religious practices, or for theatrical purposes. They are usually handmade and created using many materials. These masks are also powerful art pieces, and they have influenced the world of art, as they have been painted from cubist or expressionist movements.
If you want to own something with African heritage, these masks are surely a great idea. They are now used as artisans' creations, and you will find them in plenty of regions of the country.
Akuaba Dolls
Akuaba Dolls are also fascinating African artefacts that the Akan people created while living in Western Ghana. They were mainly part of the Fanti and Ashanti communities. These dolls had a special meaning in their community, and they were mainly associated with fertility. This is why they had a special connotation and served more than being a mere decorative piece. There is also a legend associated with these dolls.
According to this legend, once upon a time, a woman named Akua received a doll from a spiritual healer as she struggled to remain pregnant. The healer instructed her to take care of this doll as if it were her child. In the end, Akua gave birth to a baby, and these dolls remain popular, receiving the name "Akua'ba," which translates into the "Child of Akua."
Africa is a fascinating continent that has offered us plenty of gifts, which are now popular all over the world. In this article, we have just explored a few of them, but their number is much bigger.