The Zimbabwe Bird: A Symbol of History and Identity

The Zimbabwe Bird, also known as the Hungwe or Chapungu, is a national emblem of Zimbabwe, appearing on the country’s flag, coat of arms, banknotes, and various institutions. Its history stretches back centuries, intricately woven with the rise and fall of ancient Zimbabwean civilizations and evolving interpretations of its meaning. Origins in Great Zimbabwe: The…

In praise of African art: How Shona sculpting emerged

By Percy Zvomuya Joseph Ndandarika, who was once described as one of the three greatest living stone sculptors. (Image courtesy of the National Gallery of Zimbabwe) In the act of remembering the Zimbabwean sculptor Lazarus Takawira, who died of Covid-related complications on 12 January, it is impossible not to talk about Frank McEwen, the founding director of…