OUR COLLECTION — AFRICA — MALAWI 503. CHITENJE NATIVITY
This Nativity was hand-carved from mahogany wood by Joseph Banda in Blantyre, Malawi. The figures have detailed facial features and wear chitenje cloth, a colorful East African, West African and Central African fabric. The cloth name is spelled differently in each African region, but it is called chitenje in Malawi and the fabric symbolizes modesty. The set contains twelve figures: Joseph, Mary, baby Jesus in a manger, an angel with carved wings, two shepherds, a camel, an ox, a sheep, and three kings with gifts. Joseph and Mary wear matching fabric to symbolize unity. The set also contains a carved oil lamp with flame placed near baby Jesus, symbolizing that Jesus is the light of the world. The standing shepherds measure approximately 6.5 inches tall.
In addition to being a carver, Joseph is also a talented painter of African and religious scenes. He sells his paintings and carvings at a morning market that happens monthly. During the summer his work is sought after by tourists on the shores of Lake Malawi.
In addition to being a carver, Joseph is also a talented painter of African and religious scenes. He sells his paintings and carvings at a morning market that happens monthly. During the summer his work is sought after by tourists on the shores of Lake Malawi.