A beautiful sultry African country strives to enter the number of world states on an equal footing. And among the first steps towards self-determination is the introduction of official symbols. True, the coat of arms of Zimbabwe appeared a year and a half later than the national flag, although this in no way diminishes its dignity and significance for every inhabitant.
World traditions and African flavor
The coat of arms of Zimbabwe is an attempt to establish national symbols in line with generally accepted European traditions. On the one hand, there is a shield, the main element of the coats of arms of many world powers. On the other hand, there are local symbols and images, and they are not performed in the traditional classical manner. From an artistic point of view, the coat of arms of this state carries the spirit of ancient Africa and its primitive, but very deep culture.
About unity, freedom and labor
It is these important concepts that have found a place on the coat of arms of Zimbabwe, they are considered a national motto, reflect the aspirations of the common people and the plans of the leaders of the state.
The main symbol of the country itself has a complex composition, in which the fruits of the labor of nature and man are found. The support of the entire composition is an earthen mound, symbolizing the main wealth. It contains the main Zimbabwean agricultural crops: wheat (in the form of a golden ear); cotton box; ear of corn.
To emphasize that the inhabitants of the country in the sweat of their brow have to get food for themselves, a hoe is depicted on the coat of arms. The second weapon is a submachine gun (it is believed to be an AK-47, a Kalashnikov assault rifle), a symbol of the residents' long-term struggle for independence, which had to be defended with arms in hand.
The central place on the coat of arms of Zimbabwe is occupied by an emerald-colored shield, in the upper part of which there is a canvas in the form of blue and white waves. It is supported on both sides by graceful antelopes. The shield itself depicts Great Zimbabwe, it is also called the Great.
This is an ancient African city, from which, unfortunately, only ruins remain. Its appearance on the main symbol of the country is evidence of a rich and long history, great bygone times and hope for future recovery.
Great bird
Another ancient symbol of Zimbabwe is hungwe, a concept entrenched in history and literature. It is a figurine made of green soapstone in the shape of a bird. In 1871, the country's most famous statuette was found in Greater Zimbabwe, on the ruins of a local temple. Later, seven more such figures became known.
Scientists cannot yet explain what kind of bird it is, whether it is related to the living nature of the country or is a symbol of some deity. But she has already played the main role in the history of modern Zimbabwe, taking a place on official symbols, the coat of arms and flag, as well as on coins.
