Tree of Life Menorah, South Africa

This exquisitely beaded menorah features birds, flowers, and fruit decorating an elegant tree of life.  Uses traditionally sized Chanukah candles.

• 13 x 12 x 2 1/2 inches
• Made in South Africa

Handcrafted by George Mahaso.

George Mahaso was born and grew up in Harare, Zimbabwe. When he was 13 years old, he began to make and sell wire cars so he could earn money to buy clothes for himself, as well as for toys for his seven siblings.

He immigrated to South Africa when he was 23, part of a wave of young artists who were self-taught in creating wire products and sought employment opportunities not available in Zimbabwe.  He discovered, along with many other artisans, that when they completed product orders, they were  often paid less than initially promised.  As he continued to seek opportunities to sell his crafts, George deepened his skills as a wire artist, and added bead work and more intricate designs.

George married in 1995; he and his wife have four children and now live in Cape Town.  He has chosen to work independently from home so he can spend more time with his family.  He was introduced to African Home in 2010, and has become one of the key designers of their wire and bead menorahs. His attention to detail and ability to turn out high quality bead work set him apart as a master beadsmith.