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Pacific Islands, Oceania: three men, one with tattoos
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Pacific Islands, Oceania: three men, one with tattoos
Vintage 19th century photograph - Oceania, Pacific Islands, probably Fiji, Tahiti or Western Samoa:portrait of a group of men in a studio ssetting, tow with tattoos, tattooing on their legs
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Media ID 23446120
Bare Ethnicity Ethnographic Islander Pacific Tribal
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative 19th century photograph captures a moment in time, as three indigenous men from the Pacific Islands pose for a studio portrait. The setting, with its plain backdrop and simple props, underscores the ethnographic significance of the image. Two of the men display intricate tattoos covering their legs, a traditional mark of their ethnicity and tribal affiliation. The tattoos, a hallmark of Pacific Islander culture, were often acquired through rites of passage, signifying strength, status, and identity. The men's bare chests and waistcloths, typical of the Victorian era's depiction of indigenous peoples, serve to emphasize their otherness and exoticism. The era, marked by European exploration and colonization, saw an increased interest in documenting and collecting information about non-Western cultures. This photograph, therefore, offers a valuable glimpse into the past, providing insight into the lives and customs of Pacific Islanders during a time of great change. The men's serious expressions and direct gaze challenge the notion of them as passive subjects, instead asserting their agency and dignity. The photograph, with its grand historical significance, invites us to reflect on the complexities of the Pacific Islands' past and the enduring importance of preserving cultural heritage.
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