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Queen Nonesi: The Protector of the Great House
Queen Nonesi is an original African queen wall art piece celebrating female leadership, resilience, and the power of a woman determined to protect her people. As the Great Wife of King Ngubengcuka of the abaThembu, Nonesi became a queen mother and influential political figure during a period of succession struggles and growing British colonial pressure.
Portrayed alongside a majestic lion, she represents protection, courage, sovereignty, and strength. Rich earthy tones, layered texture and metallic paint create a warm, atmospheric finish, giving this original artwork a powerful presence for collectors drawn to African history and heritage-inspired art.
Details -
- Original Mixed media artwork on canvas
- Measures 70 x 100 cm
- Complimentary UK local delivery
- Edges are painted and do not need framing
- Please allow one week for local delivery
- Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity
The Story behind Queen Nonesi
Queen Nonesi was the daughter of King Faku of the amaMpondo and became the Great Wife of King Ngubengcuka of the abaThembu around 1828. When her husband died, she played an important role in protecting the succession of her young son, Mthikrakra, and later continued to exercise political influence.
Her story is one of strategic leadership and protection. During the devastating cattle-killing movement of 1856–57, Nonesi rejected the prophecy and prevented her people from slaughtering their cattle. She also resisted colonial attempts to remove her people from their land.
The lion beside her symbolises the protective strength and determination that defined her legacy.