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Young South African Boy suffering from Vitiligo
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Young South African Boy suffering from Vitiligo
Young South African Boy from Pretoria suffering from Vitiligo - titled here at the Leopard Skin Kaffir Child - A Freak of Nature. Date: circa 1905
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14380895
© Mary Evans / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection
Disease Disorder Feb16 Freak Freakshow Kaffir Leopard Paraded Patches Patchy Piebald Pretoria Sideshow Skin Spotted Suffering Unusual Pigment Pigmentation
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This poignant photograph captures the image of a young South African boy from Pretoria, who was afflicted with the rare skin condition known as Vitiligo. The image, titled "Leopard Skin Kaffir Child - A Freak of Nature," dates back to circa 1905. The boy, who appears to be in his early teens, is shown with patches of white skin spreading across his body, creating a striking resemblance to a leopard's spotted pattern. At the time, Vitiligo was a little-understood condition, and those affected were often stigmatized and marginalized in their communities. The boy in this photograph was likely subjected to unwanted attention and even exploitation, as he was possibly paraded as a "freak" or a "sideshow attraction" due to his unusual appearance. The use of the derogatory term "kaffir" in the title of the photograph is a painful reminder of the racial prejudice and discrimination that was rampant during this era in South Africa. The term was used as a derogatory term for black Africans, and its inclusion in the title only serves to add to the boy's suffering. Despite the challenging circumstances of his life, the young boy in this photograph maintains a dignified and resilient expression. His gaze directly into the camera lens challenges the viewer to look beyond his physical appearance and see the human being beneath the patches of white skin. The photograph is a poignant reminder of the human capacity for enduring adversity with grace and dignity, even in the face of discrimination and prejudice. Today, Vitiligo is recognized as a medical condition that affects people of all races and ethnicities, and there is a growing awareness and acceptance of those who live with the condition. This photograph serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy, compassion, and understanding in the face of difference and diversity.
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