Inqawe

Inqawe holds profound significance in Xhosa culture, representing a cherished tradition from ancient times when both men and women indulged in pipe smoking.

The length of the pipes became symbolic of pride and prestige, with longer pipes denoting elevated status.

Women played a crucial role in this cultural practice, adorning the inqawe with vibrant and expressive beads, turning these smoking pipes into eloquent statements of individual and collective identity.