Humbleness Or Kuzvipeta
Artist Lazarus Guvamombe
Spirits in Stone Piece Number 153733
In Shona society, intricate ritual manners are expressed even in
everyday greetings. When passing another man, one gives a warm
and hearty greeting by clapping his hands and lifting his arm in
salute. When women pass one another, the hands clap, the head
gently tilts, and the knees bend subtly to one side as if folding the
body slightly. This art form portrays the welcoming gestures of the
kuzvipeta or ‘humbling of oneself’. Kuzvipeta means 'to fold oneself'
or to show proper humble position in deference to others. It is not to
be confused with subservience. As an ancient tradition, it shows the
highest form of respect and good manners, and indicates excellent
character and spiritual strength.©
