Metal Print : Women wearing Lip-rings
Metal Prints from Mary Evans Picture Library
Women wearing Lip-rings
Two women from Manganja tribe wearing lip-rings (pelele). When girls are very young, the upper lip is pierced close to the nose, and a small pin inserted to prevent the orifice from closing. When the wound is healed, the small pin is withdrawn, and a larger one introduced, and the plan is carried on for years, until at last the full-sized pelele can be worn. Date: 1868
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14306962
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1868 Body Deformation Disc Malawi Pelele Pierced Piercing Plates Plugs Ring Rings Southeast Stretched Zambia Racial Upper
14"x11" (28x35cm) Metal Print
Introducing the captivating Media Storehouse Metal Prints collection, featuring this enchanting image of two women from the Manganja tribe adorned with traditional pelele lip-rings. Each print is meticulously crafted from high-quality metal, delivering a stunning and durable piece of art for your home or office. This evocative image, sourced from Mary Evans Prints Online, showcases the rich cultural heritage of lip-piercing practices among the Manganja people. Order now and bring the beauty and intrigue of this ancient tradition into your space.
Our Metal Prints feature rounded corners and rear fixings for easy wall mounting. Images are directly printed onto a lightweight, high quality 5mm thick, durable metallic surface for a vivid and vibrant finish. Available in 2 sizes, 28x35cm (14x11) and 50x40cm (20x16). The unique material is fade, moisture, chemical and scratch resistant to help ensure this art lasts a lifetime.
Made with durable metal and luxurious printing techniques, metal prints bring images to life and add a modern touch to any space
Estimated Product Size is 35.5cm x 27.9cm (14" x 11")
These are individually made so all sizes are approximate
Artwork printed orientated as per the preview above, with landscape (horizontal) or portrait (vertical) orientation to match the source image.
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures the distinctive traditional practice of lip-plating among women of the Manganja tribe in Southeast Africa, specifically in Malawi and Zambia, during the late 19th century. The women in the image, adorned with pelele, or lip-plates, are members of this ethnic group, whose cultural identity is deeply intertwined with this body modification. The pelele is a form of lip-plating that involves gradually increasing the size of the lip plate over time. The process begins when girls are very young, with the upper lip being pierced close to the nose and a small pin inserted to prevent the orifice from closing. As the wound heals, a larger pin is introduced, and the process is repeated until the full-sized pelele can be worn. The pelele is a significant part of the Manganja women's identity and is believed to symbolize beauty, fertility, and maturity. The plates can be made from various materials, including wood, ivory, or metal, and are often decorated with intricate designs. This photograph, taken in 1868, offers a rare glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Manganja people and the significance of body modification in their society. The practice of lip-plating is a testament to the resilience and creativity of African cultures, which continue to inspire and intrigue people around the world.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.