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Traditional facial scarification in Congo, Central Africa
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Traditional facial scarification in Congo, Central Africa
Traditional facial scarification of a woman in the Congo, Central Africa. The text on the back of the card reads thus: " The old man and her have not fallen out - oh no, this is how they beautify themselves..." Date: 1908
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Media ID 11590181
© Mary Evans / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection
Congo Congolese Facial Mark Marked Ridges Scar Scarification Scars Tradition Traditions
EDITORS COMMENTS
1. Title: "Beauty Marks of the Congo: A Tradition of Facial Scarification in Central Africa" 2.. This evocative photograph, taken in 1908, captures the intricate and time-honored practice of traditional facial scarification among the people of the Congo in Central Africa. The image portrays an elderly man and a woman, their faces adorned with distinct, raised ridges, the result of this ancient custom. The woman's face is a canvas of intricate patterns, her scars telling a story of her heritage and identity. Her features are accentuated by the scars, which run in elegant lines and geometric patterns across her forehead, cheeks, and chin. The man, with his own set of scars, gazes intently at the camera, his expression unreadable but his pride in their shared tradition palpable. The text on the back of the card reads, "The old man and her have not fallen out – oh no, this is how they beautify themselves..." This statement underscores the importance of scarification as a form of self-expression and a symbol of beauty in the Congolese culture. Facial scarification has been a long-standing tradition in Central Africa, with various ethnic groups practicing it for different reasons – from rites of passage to marking social status or tribal affiliation. This photograph offers a glimpse into the past, providing a window into a rich and complex history that continues to shape the identities of the Congolese people. This image, a poignant reminder of the enduring power of tradition, invites us to reflect on the myriad ways in which cultural practices shape our understanding of beauty and identity. It is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of human traditions, even in the face of external influences and the passage of time.
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