NGUNI HIDES.
Nguni Hides & Skins | Durban | South Africa.
Nguni hides supplier based in Umhlanga (Durban). Shop in-store or buy online.
See the full range of Nguni hides for sale here.
The Timeless Beauty of Nguni Hides and Their Cultural Significance.
Nguni hides are renowned for their rich, earthy tones and striking patterns, making them one of Africa’s most distinctive natural products. Each hide is unique, with the primary colors being black, brown, and white. This natural variation ensures that no two Nguni skins are ever the same, adding to their exclusivity and appeal.
Sustainable and Authentic.
Sourced as a by-product of Nguni cattle farmed for beef in South Africa, these hides are both sustainable and authentic. The cattle roam freely in the bush, which results in natural markings, small scars, and sometimes branding marks on the hides—each telling a story of the animal’s life. These imperfections add to the raw beauty and authenticity of Nguni hides, making them even more desirable.
The Durability and Practicality of Nguni Hides.
Nguni hides have become increasingly popular as floor rugs, prized not only for their natural beauty but also for their exceptional durability. These hides are incredibly hard-wearing, making them perfect for high-traffic areas in homes and lodges. Another reason for their popularity is their ease of maintenance—if they become dirty, simply clean the affected area with ordinary sunlight soap and allow it to dry in the shade. If the edges start curling, dampen the area with water, place a heavy object on it overnight, and let it dry naturally.
Interesting Fact: Despite the variety of colors in their coats, all Nguni cows have black noses!
The Elegance of Nguni Hide Furniture.
Handcrafted Nguni hide furniture is among the most striking and uniquely African décor available. This exquisite furniture has gained popularity in private homes and luxury lodges, both locally and internationally. The demand for Nguni hide upholstery has surged as more people discover its elegance and cultural significance. Wingback chairs, lounge suites, ottomans, and cushion covers upholstered in genuine Nguni hide bring a touch of African heritage into contemporary interiors, seamlessly blending tradition with modern luxury.
The Rich History of Nguni Cattle.
Nguni cattle are indigenous to Southern Africa, having been introduced to the region by the Xhosa, Swazi, and Zulu people during their migration from the north between 600 and 700 AD. These medium-sized cattle are highly valued for their fertility, resilience, and even temperament.
Historically, the well-being of African communities has been closely linked to the health of their cattle herds. King Shaka Zulu recognized the economic and military significance of large cattle herds, even breeding them according to specific hide colors for different regiments in his army. To this day, cattle remain an important symbol of wealth and status in many African cultures. The traditional practice of paying Lobola (bridal price) in cattle is still upheld, with the number of cattle offered reflecting the bride’s status.
Growing up in rural Africa, young boys take on the responsibility of herding cattle, spending long hours in the fields. During this time, they form deep connections with their animals, often naming them based on their unique colors and patterns—further embedding Nguni cattle into African cultural and spiritual life.
The Connection Between Nature and Culture.
Nguni hides and cattle represent far more than just a product or a trade—they embody a legacy of tradition, resilience, and African identity. Whether as a luxurious floor rug, a statement furniture piece, or a treasured symbol of cultural heritage, Nguni hides continue to captivate and inspire, bridging the past with the present in a truly authentic way.
isihlaalo - meaning 'saddle' which refers to cows that are black with a broad white strip over their back.
uNkwazi - comes from inkwazi (Fish Eagle) and refers to a cow with a black hide and a white head.
umngqithi - meaning a cow with light brown and white speckles similar to the Kori Bustard plant.
impemvu - meaning 'White Helmet Shrike' referring to the cow with a white face and coloured body.
ukhozi - meaning 'Black Eagle' is the name given to cows with white speckles on their stomach and forehead.
Isiqanda - meaning 'egg-like' and refers to cows with egg-shaped mottled markings.
i(li)gamanxa - meaning 'do by halves' and refers to cows with white bodies and coloured neck and head.
