Mapungubwe Collection

About Mapungubwe Collection

The Mapungubwe Collection is a world-renowned archaeological assemblage representing the peak of the Kingdom of Mapungubwe, South Africa's first class-based society (c. 1075–1220 AD). It is primarily curated by the University of Pretoria (UP), which has been its official custodian since the site's discovery in 1933. The collection is famous for its intricate gold work, often referred to as "South Africa's Crown Jewels". - The Golden Rhinoceros: A small, palm-sized figurine made of thin gold foil tacked onto a wooden core with tiny gold nails. - The Sceptre & Bowl: Symbols of royal authority and wealth, also crafted from fine gold sheeting. Location: Located in the Old Arts Building on the University of Pretoria's Hatfield campus, this museum houses the majority of the original artifacts.