Stratigraphy Of Humankind
South Africa’s rich tapestry of mining history is intricately woven with tales of prosperity, trade, and resilience. At the heart of this legacy lies the ancient Kingdom of Mapungubwe, situated at the confluence of the Limpopo and Shashe rivers. Flourishing between the 11th and 13th centuries, Mapungubwe stood as the most complex society in southern Africa. Its abundant gold deposits journeyed to the bustling markets of India and Arabia, underscoring its past affluence. However, this expansive trade was shadowed by the somber realities of the slave trade.
Local folklore speaks of seasoned prospectors, their eyes keenly searching for fig trees. These trees, often planted and nurtured by slaves, became beacons, believed to mark ancient excavation sites. They serve as silent witnesses to the region’s profound mining heritage.
The Barberton Greenstone Belt, one of the world’s oldest geological structures, further amplifies South Africa’s mining narrative. This primordial formation cradles some of the earliest gold mines, their treasures reaching distant kingdoms like Zimbabwe and Kiane.
Phalaborwa, has its own tale to tell. The ancient Iron miners of this region, with their expertise dating back to 770 A.D., extracted bounties of iron and copper from the famed Loolekop mountain, leaving an indelible mark on the annals of mining history.
Jo Roets’ artwork, “Stratigraphy of Humankind,” captures this layered history, echoing the timeless tales etched into the very soil of our land. Each Self-Drying Natural Stone Clay and Gold Leaf tells a story of resilience, trade, and the indomitable human spirit.
Join us in exploring these intricate narratives through our 12-month Art and Mining series on the Minrom Art CSR page. Unearth the stories behind our efforts with the Fraserburg Project. Learn more about our local artists, the Be the Good 360 Art Project, and stay tuned for the auction date for all 12 pieces.