African altarpiece tells story of defiance

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The Keiskamma Altarpiece was made over six months by 120 Xhosa and San women living alongside the Keiskamma river, in eastern South Africa.

Measuring 13 feet by 22 feet, it was a determined effort by the community to do something positive in the face of the devastation caused by HIV and poverty. They have since benefited from distribution of antiretroviral drugs that combat the illness.

The work was inspired by the 16th-century Isenheim Altarpiece by the German Matthias Grünewald. Some of the women who made it travelled to see it in London this week. The cathedral is selling other beaded and embroidered items made by them.

Colin Slee, the Dean, said the work was in the ancient tradition of altarpieces as great art. "This one highlights the challenges of HIV/Aids in southern Africa with great beauty and pathos," he said.

Visitors should ring 020 7367 6700 to check viewing times.