A bit of family history - Abdelkrim ag Ahrmed, son of Ahrmed ag Chaoua, is the grand-son of Chaoua and comes from a dynasty of caravan leaders. In the language of the Tuareg, Tamacheq, “ag” means “son of”. - Niger / Aïr / 2003

Tuareg warrior - With a single blow of his Takuba, Boubakar ag Mohamed has beheaded a jackal... what a feat! As the leader of a clan of ten families from the Kel Takriza tribe, formerly feared in the Sahel because of their raids against black farmers, today he is the most peaceful of Tuareg dignitaries – and the one wearing the most makeup! - Niger / Western Aïr

Central America - At the market of Santiago de Atitlan (Guatemala), the men still wore their customary striped trousers when this picture was taken; little by little, however, European-cut shirts were already replacing their traditional garments. - 1980

The strength of age - In his village in Sardinia, old Azeglio does not age. In fact, there is no age limit for him. Or age simply no longer exists – unless it is hiding behind his beard. How come? In Sardinia, as in all places where wisdom is not easily acquired, the youth of the heart lasts as long as life. - 1980

Living memory - From the banks of the Indus River through the steppes of Central Asia to the gates of the West, this man remembers the camels and the caravans that brought fragrant spices to Europe's tables. Did he get to see them? At least he remembers being told about them. And the memories will live on as long as the eyes and the words do. (Jodhpur, Rajasthan) - 1990

A bow and arrow hunter in leather sarong: what an amazing motif to photograph! This man from the Peul-Bororo tribe was photographed in the Sahelian area of Tchin-Tabaradene, in central Niger.

Every year, the largest carnival in South America – after Rio, of course – takes place in the city of Oruro, Bolivia. Life here is not easy, though, particularly after the closing of most mines. The simplest meal is a luxury, even if it costs just a few Bolivianos.

The chief’s toothbrush - Boubakar ag Mohamed does not smoke. He uses this piece of wood, taken from a very widespread bush in the Sahara called the «Abesgouin», to clean his teeth – which by no means detracts from the authority in his eyes! - Niger / Aïr / 2001

Niger - The caravan leader Mohamed ag Boubakar with his toothbrush.

Portrait of a young Touareg - Faris / Aïr / Niger

Targui in a Touareg camp in the Hoggar - Algeria

Roles of nomadic women and men (rock painting / end of the prehistoric period / Ouan Bender / Tassili n-Ajjer / Algeria)

Malem
The malem is the master of the fire, the blacksmith. These artisans produce silver jewelery, weapons or camel harnesses. Here, the malem finishes a woman's bracelet.
Niger - Agadés - 1968

Touareg
This noble Touareg of the Kel Rela tribe is armed with his spear. The spear is becoming more and more rare; it was used to hunt gazelles or mouflons. The tagoûlmoust, the veil that surrounds the head and hides the lower face, is given by the father to his son when he reaches puberty.
Algeria - Hoggar - 1964

Public transport
No, it's not a photographic montage, but a tribute to public transport. On top of the 15 tons of cargo, 53 passengers crowded as best they could to travel the hundreds of kilometers separating Sebha, Libya, from Bilma, Niger.
Libya - Fezzan - 1964

Head of an indigenous community (Alcade) of Ollataytambo in the department of Cuzco. - 1969

The legends are only available in German, French or Spanish
Pêcheur Shipibo des rives de l'Ucayali (principal affluent du fleuve Amazone) en train de réparer son filet. - Paococha près Pucallpa (département d’Ucayali). - 1969

Arrows poisoned with curare are inserted into the blowpipes. This weapon is used to kill prey at a considerable distance from the hunter. Yanamono near the Rio Napo - 1969

The blowpipe is the Yagua's favourite weapon. They mainly use it to hunt birds and small mammals. Yanamono near the Rio Napo - 1969

A Cordillera Indian works in a petrol station in the capital. - 1969

The legends are only available in German, French or Spanish
Dans la lumière aveuglante des déserts du nord du Pérou. - Près de Chiclayo - Département de Lambayeque - 1969

The legends are only available in German, French or Spanish
Culture du coton à l'Hacienda Miraflores Près Humay dans la vallée côtière de Pisco (département d'Ica). - 1969

The legends are only available in German, French or Spanish
L'agriculture de la côte est orientée vers la production massive du coton. - Hacienda Miraflores Près Humay dans la vallée côtière de Pisco (département d'Ica). - 1969

The legends are only available in German, French or Spanish
Le cheval des hacendados de la région d'Ica, habitué à se déplacer dans le désert, avance lentement, la tête de profil. Il ne lève presque pas les pattes mais chasse plutôt ces dernières de côté. C'est ce qu'on appelle le paso peruano. - Hacienda San Ramón de Alfredo Elías Vargas - 1969

This wrinkled old man from Tarucani with his woollen chullo is chewing coca leaves to banish hunger and fatigue. I wonder if he remembers that ‘the divine leaf’ was once reserved only for the emperor, the nobles, the mummies and the gods?

The legends are only available in German or Spanish
Campesino aus dem Dorf San Antonio de Chuca, Departement Arequipa, Peru. Die chullo genannte Ohrenmütze schützt gegen die oft beißende Kälte auf dem Altiplano. Gelegentlich tragen die Indios als Schutz gegen die grelle Sonne über dem Chullo einen Hut. - 1969

The legends are only available in German or Spanish
Das ganze Leben der Kogi ist bestimmt von Fruchtbarkeitsriten und der strengen Trennung der männlichen und weiblichen Prinzipien. Dieses Bild zeigt einen Kogi-Mann mit dem poporo, einem mit pulverisierten Muschelschalen gefüllten Kürbis. Der Kürbis gilt als weiblich, und der Stock, mit dem das Kalkpulver «herausgefischt» wird, als männlich. Über Jahre hinweg vollzieht der Kogi symbolisch die Befruchtung, indem er dem Kürbis mit dem Stock Pulver entnimmt und es auf der Schale reibt, die mit der Zeit eine dicke Kalkschicht ansetzt. Goldfiguren mit ähnlichen Kürbiskalebassen, deren Kalk zusammen mit Kokablättern gekaut wurde, sind aus der Quimbaya-Kultur des mittleren Caucatals (11.-15. Jahrhundert) erhalten geblieben. - 1977

The legends are only available in German or Spanish
In dem auf 2960 Meter Höhe gelegenen Cajamarca lockte Francisco Pizarro den Inka Atahualpa in einen Hinterhalt und nahm ihn gefangen. Noch heute wird die «Camara de rescate» gezeigt, jenes Zimmer, das Atahualpa mit Gold anfüllen ließ. Das Lösegeld rettete ihn jedoch nicht vor dem gewaltsamen Tod. Cajamarca hat bis heute weitgehend seinen kolonialen Charakter bewahrt, und mit seinen 30‘000 Einwohnern ist es ein reger Marktflecken: Die traditionellen Hüte Cajamarcas werden aus Toquilla-Stroh (Pflanzenfaser) hergestellt. - 1976

The blowgun is the preferred weapon of the Yagua. They use it mainly to hunt birds and small mammals. Yanamono on the banks of the Río Napo near Iquitos – 1969

Inca Lambayeque ceramics – man, 23 cm high - Museo Brüning Lambayeque - 1976

Aríbalo - with representation of a man - Nazca Valley - around 1370 - height 32 cm - Museo Regional Ica - 1976

Fabric with decorations of stylized people and lamas - width 30 cm, height of people 37 mm - Inca costeño culture - Nazca valley - around 1370 - Regional Museum of Ica - 1976

Sheep shearing takes place during the months of December and January, in the heart of the southern summer. The work is carried out in a galpón, a building reserved for this purpose that can be seen in all the estancias. The sheep are led to the galpón by ovejeros on horseback. Each esquilador (shearer) shears about 200 sheep a day. He uses an electric shearer set in motion by a motor which, at the same time, provides light to the property. Twice a year the esquiladores cut the wool around the sheep's eyes. The animals cannot see clearly because of the thickness of their fleece. - 1973

Farrier Delphin Rodríguez from Bahía Bustamante (Chubut province) smiles cheerfully, which is not at all the case for all gauchos in the Pampas. Most of them are rough around the edges as a result of their adventurous lives. It often takes a lot of patience to be accepted by the men in a group. However, beneath the tough exterior lies a big heart. Their love of nature and the great outdoors has become legendary. They are completely at one with the special landscape in which they live, and their profession requires people of unusual strength. - 1973

A Jesuit who came from Chile introduced the vine to Argentina in 1556. However, it was not until the 19th century that winegrowing took off considerably and became one of the country's most important food industries. The provinces of Mendoza, San Juan, Córdoba, Río Negro, San Luis and Salta are the wine-growing regions par excellence in Argentina. The total area covered by vineyards is almost 300,000 hectares. The annual wine production for all the provinces mentioned amounts to approximately 30 million hectolitres. Argentina is the fourth largest wine producer in the world. The most modern facilities are located in Mendoza, where winemaking has developed in a truly spectacular way. For the whole country, the grape harvest takes place during the month of March, at the end of the southern summer. A festive atmosphere prevails in all the localities concerned. The wine is put into wooden or cement fermentation vats. The alcohol content of Argentinean wine is 12.5 degrees. The old man in the photo is a connoisseur of the new wine. It illustrates the friendly fondness that Argentines have for a drink that is found at every meal. - 1973

On June 24th there is an alms harvest for San Juan in Jujuy. - 1973

In the monte, in the north of Santa Fe province, the locals beat the quebracho colourado. This is a tree about 25 metres high and with an average diameter of one and a half metres. The heartwood is rich in tannin, which is used in industry. - 1973

Fabien Romero, called Chavi, is an old hunter and used to be an Indian slayer. He lives on the estancia “Miraflores” (Santa Fe province) and is said to be 112 to 115 years old. Like all Argentines, he likes to sip his mate tea. - 1973

The majority of Paraguay's Indians are Guaranis. You also meet them in the Argentinean province of Misiones. This indigenous man is sitting outside her house, weaving a basket. - 1973

A capataz of the estancia “La Amalia” (Entre Ríos province) with one of his children. The number of gauchos on the estates is quite large. They are placed under the orders of a supervisor, the capataz, who enjoys the confidence of the owner. - 1973

No gaucho who does not know how to strum the guitar and improvise, in verse, a tender or perfidious "payada". - Estancia Santa María, Ayacucho, Province Buenos Aires - 1975

A tempting display in Alajuela, Costa Rica. It shows bananas and small juicy fruits called pejiballes. This picture gives us a fairly accurate idea of the wealth and diversity of tropical fruits in the Central American republics. The consumption of these products of the earth, on the internal markets, is notable. It is an indispensable complement to a mainly vegetarian diet. This fact is the result of a long tradition. But it is also explained by the high cost of meat for the country's poorest populations. Nevertheless, the production of tropical fruits by the large landowners is primarily geared towards export. The production of bananas - to give just one example - has allowed North American companies to develop and even acquire considerable economic and political importance, becoming a veritable state within the state and keeping a close eye on everything that happens in the republic. - 1977

The coffee harvest takes place at different times of the year in most of the Central American republics. Coffee trees are one of the main natural resources of the countries of the subcontinent. Drying of the beans takes place immediately after the harvest of the precious commodity. This operation is carried out in an ingenio (factory) established on the slopes of the mountain, in all regions where coffee trees are particularly well represented. - 1977

On the beach in San Juan del Sur, on the Pacific coast of Nicaragua. Men in charge of repainting a boat that seriously needed it, take a few moments of well-deserved rest. Such boats are used not only for fishing, which is always plentiful, but also for transporting passengers and goods. They provide a fairly regular service between the various ports of the coast, often allowing faster connections than those offered by an incomplete and, depending on the season, very poor road network. - 1977

A guard sits at the entrance to the León rectory. On the wall is written "Defendámonos unidos la violación de nuestros derechos" (Let us defend together the violation of our rights). - 1977

At the train station in León, Nicaragua. - 1977

Ploughing the land with two Brahman bulls in the region of Acajutla, a municipality in El Salvador. It is located in the southwest of the department of Sonsonate. - 1977

Street atmosphere from the village of Izalco in El Salvador. The Nawat name Itzalku is composed of the word elements itz, "obsidian", (k)al, "house" and the locative ending -ku and can be roughly translated as "place of obsidian houses". - 1977

Cotton threads of the so-called amarilla (yellow) species hanging outside a house in the village of San Sebastiân, El Salvador. The first use of cotton in Central America dates back to the second millennium B.C. It coincides with the increasing development of agriculture, the domestication of animals and the simultaneous invention of weaving, basketry and ceramics. The role of cotton in the economic life of the Indian populations was and still is important. - 1977

Coffee plantation near Santa Ana in El Salvador. Coffee is harvested in most Central American republics and at different times of the year. It is one of the most important natural resources of the subcontinent. Immediately after the harvest, the beans are dried. This process takes place in factories built on the hillsides of the more important plantation areas. - 1977

Suspension bridge over the Seleguá River, which rises in the Cuchumatanes mountain range and flows northwest through the department of Huehuetenango in Guatemala towards Mexico. - 1977

It is Sunday, market day in Santiago de Atitlán, on the shores of a beautiful Guatemalan lake. These men are wearing their ethnic cotton trousers with vertical stripes. Some of these garments still have multicoloured embroidery on the lower part. However, while some have kept the typical local shirt, the majority of the others have adopted the European or American cut shirt. Men who travel and work outside their community are more influenced by the outside world than women. - 1977

The people in Rabinal and its surroundings in the department of Baja Veracruz live mainly from agriculture. However, Rabinal is also known for its potteries and the artistic painting of their products. - 1977

House construction near San Jerónimo in the department of Baja Veracruz. The roof is covered with sugar cane leaves and can serve up to 15 years before it needs to be renewed. - 1977

Another tasty scene taken at the Friday market in San Francisco el Alto, a charming village in the mountainous area of Guatemala. As early as the 16th century, the Spaniards introduced domestic animals to the Americas that were not yet known to the natives and that the latter began to raise for their own use. This was the case with cows, sheep, goats and pigs. The latter became very important during the colony and became a very important source of income in many parts of the continent. In the lowlands, pigs are fed with bananas or yucca. They roam freely in the streets of the towns and supplement their diet by swallowing whatever is within their reach. In the mountainous areas of Guatemala, on the other hand, these animals are bred for the production of fat, which is sold to mestizo and white people. The same applies to milk and eggs, which are considered luxury foods. - 1977

A load of pottery is carried for sale in the market of Chichicastenango. - 1972

One of the most important and esteemed figures in a procession in Chichicastenango, Guatemala. He is the principal or religious leader of the community, who leads all the ceremonies and rites celebrated by the members of his group. He is also known as the anciano or pasado (elder). To reach this enviable position, he has had to carry out a wide range of functions throughout his life, successively dedicating himself to the church and the objects of worship, organising the processions and serving the patron saint of his village. The principal is a respected man who acts in concert with the chiman or indigenous priest of the community. Both are the most faithful defenders of the tradition. They also seek, by their example, to maintain the balance and safeguard the morals of their group. The principal usually comes from a fairly well-to-do family, which is not necessarily the case for his closest aides. Nevertheless, both strive to perform tasks that are aimed at the material and spiritual development of the representatives of their clan. - 1977

The main festival in Chichicastenango is celebrated every 21st December during the winter solstice in honour of Saint Thomas the Apostle. Throughout the pre-Columbian period, the Indians knew only two types of musical instruments, drums and wind instruments (flutes, trumpets, whistles and ocarinas) made of cane stalks, bamboo or clay. Instruments made of copper such as trumpets, trombones, saxophones and horns were soon adopted by the natives from the Spanish conquerors. The use of the foreign musical instruments and the adoption of a foreign type of music brought noticeable changes to the folklore of the indigenous people. - 1977

Street scene from the city of Belize. The majority of the inhabitants of Belize are coloured, Mayan, Mestizo, Antillean, Mulatto, Syrian, Lebanese and Chinese. All these people speak a language with Spanish, English and French elements. British Honduras or Belize is a small country that is hardly spoken of, at least not in Europe. - 1978

The majority of the inhabitants of Belice are coloured, Mayan, Mestizo, Antillean, Mulatto, Syrian, Lebanese and Chinese. All these people speak a language with Spanish, English and French elements. British Honduras or Belize is a small country that is hardly spoken of, at least not in Europe. - 1978

Domino players in Belize City. Games are an important part of the daily life of people in the tropics, so much so that they sometimes take precedence over other more lucrative activities. However, it should be taken into account that life in these latitudes is already difficult because of the heat and humidity. In any case, the natives could not maintain a work rhythm similar to that of the inhabitants of temperate regions. - 1978

A Berber musician group in the streets of Chinguetti. The tidinit is a long-necked lute and is traditionally played by nomadic Berber tribes. It has a body made of a calabash. The soundboard is made of a degreased but untanned animal skin. Unlike tanned leather, this rawhide becomes very hard and remains firm. - Mauritania - 1968

This old man from Tidjikja, southern Mauritania, has the typical features of his breed. The sun and life in the wide open spaces have chiselled his countenance and shaped him. - Mauritania - 1968

These three Arabs have plenty of time to chat. - Ksar Ikiss oasis south of Adrar in Algeria. - 1971

In a country where the sand is 75 degrees Celsius in summer, the main architectural problem is to create shady and cool zones. The oasis dwellers are masters in this difficult art, whether in the Bordj of Chinguetti in Mauritania or in the narrow alleys of Ghadames (picture) in Libya. - 1969

A caravan leader from Sudan is resting in Djanet. He has brought goods from the south with which he barters here. - Algeria - 1962

Our journey has taken us to the sandy deserts and to Djebel, through the gorges of Tassili and into the tall grass of the steppe. Everywhere we met people who were able to build their lives and even laugh and sing. But it is to the sand that our minds and, why not, our hearts are drawn. This single man leading his camel across the hot, soft sand represents the triumph of the will over the most hostile matter. Sure, at the end of the journey, palm trees await him again, similar to those here in the valley of Adjahl; but even these exist only thanks to the will of other people, if the sand is not ultimately to win the day. - Libya - 1964

In Fezzan, in the Edeyen of Oubari, a strange people lives near the lakes surrounded by high dunes. They are the Daouda. The word Daouda comes from "doud", which means worm in Arabic. In fact, the Daouda eat "worms", which they fish in the lakes fed by underground springs. Occasionally, however, a goat is slaughtered and the meat hung out to dry. - Libya - 1964

Date harvest in Murzuk in the Fezzan of Libya. Dates are rich in sugar and have a correspondingly high calorie content. This earned them the name "bread of the desert". Fibre, minerals such as potassium, calcium and magnesium, and B vitamins make them a healthy snack. The content of the amino acid tryptophan is particularly interesting. - Libya - 1964

At noon, the main square of Bardaï is deserted by the population. - Chad - 1967

Grain sprouts between the date palms. The sedentary leads a hard, miserable life, he is a slave to his land. For days he draws water from the bottom of the well and empties it into the seguias, the irrigation channels that run through the cultivated land. - Chad - 1967

A young Tubu from the Tibesti. The origin of these nomads remains a mystery. According to certain traits, they could belong to the black race, according to others they are more Mediterranean or even Ethiopian in type. - Tibesti - Chad - 1967

Tea time ... a special moment for the Saharan nomads. - Tibesti - Chad - 1967

View of the Enneri Bessama (Tibesti). Note the small figure: it serves as a scale for the landscape. "Enneri" means something like "river". Like a wadi, it is characterised by the fact that it is almost always dry. The road that connects Bardaï with Soboroum runs through the bed of the Enneri Bessama. The volcanic tuff seems to have been cut with a gigantic sword stroke; soft, very fine sand, which makes walking difficult, fills the bottom of the Enneri. - Tibesti - Chad - 1967

View of the Enneri Bessama (Tibesti). Note the two men: they serve as a scale for the landscape. "Enneri" means something like "river". Like a wadi, it is characterised by the fact that it is almost always dry. The road that connects Bardaï with Soboroum runs through the bed of the Enneri Bessama. The volcanic tuff seems to have been cut with a gigantic sword stroke; soft, very fine sand, which makes walking difficult, fills the bottom of the Enneri. - Tibesti - Chad - 1967

One of Marshal Leclerc's Tubu guides, inspector of troops in North Africa, who distinguished himself in Chad and Libya during the Second World War. - Tibesti - Chad - 1967

The former chief of the Chirfa district, photographed in the Maman Delaï camp near Chirfa in Djado - Niger - 1966

Achegour is a regionally important water point on the northern Aïr-Bilma route between the Arbre du Ténéré and Dirkou in the Kaouar valley in northern Niger. The well is located in the middle of a sandy depression of the Falaise mountain range of Achegouar in the Ténéré desert. The water level is about 2-3 m deep. The water is slightly salty, but drinkable. Camels, however, drink the water only reluctantly. There are several acacias and tamarisk trees at the well of Achegour. - Ténéré - Niger - 1975

Tegguiddan-Tessoum. Salt extraction is gruelling work under the Saharan sun. – Niger – 1966

At the market in Timbédra, this old man patiently waits for a buyer. - Mauritania - 1969

This Moor waits for a job in the port of Kabara. - Mali - 1969

Silver and leather working is an important craft. The sword scabbard of a takouba is made here. - Kabara - Mali - 1969

A visit to a hairdresser is not only for a shave, but also for a long chat. - Timbuktu - Mali - 1969

A young water carrier in the Mopti area - Mali - 1969

Preparing the weaving threads - Mopti region - Mali - 1969

Joining forces makes it easier to lift the water bag - Eskiman well - Niger - 1970

Girls as well as boys help to bring the cattle to the drinking trough. - Eskiman well - Niger - 1970

It is difficult to find a people with more sense of pomp and adornment than the Peul. At festivals, one can witness true competitions for male beauty. The Peul are extremely ostentatious - as far as poverty does not set natural limits to this. But it is most interesting to note that these men, whose effeminate demeanour conceals a legendary courage, like their neighbours, the Tuareg, know the ancient custom of the courtyard of love. At festivals, the participants never refrain from carrying this long sword, so similar to the takuba from the Hoggarm massif. They make up their faces with vivid colours, saffron yellow, red and white predominating, and one would come to no end to make an inventory of the jewels and amulets they are wont to spread out on these occasions. To win the approval of the lady of one's choice, one must know how to show oneself off, and looks, grimaces and contortions count.... This is what the beautiful spectacle observed at the fountain of Ekisman is all about. - Niger - 1970

Until a few decades ago, ethnography did not credit the Peul (Fula) with a prehistoric origin; but we did not yet know what prehistory has since revealed to us. This Bororo Peul, found between Abalak and In Gall, is a descendant of the Neolithic cattle herders. Although dark-skinned, but copper-coloured rather than black, the Peul may well be the heirs of the Neolithic people of Sudanese tradition, who had emerged from the mixture of several races, at least one of which came from the Mediterranean area. - Eskiman well - Niger - 1970

It is difficult to find a people with more sense of pomp and adornment than the Peul (Fula). At festivals, one can witness true competitions for male beauty. The Peul are extremely ostentatious - as far as poverty does not set natural limits to this. But it is most interesting to note that these men, whose effeminate demeanour conceals a legendary courage, like their neighbours, the Tuareg, know the ancient custom of the courtyard of love. At festivals, the participants never refrain from carrying this long sword, so similar to the takuba from the Hoggarm massif. They make up their faces with vivid colours, saffron yellow, red and white predominating, and one would come to no end to make an inventory of the jewels and amulets they are wont to spread out on these occasions. To win the approval of the lady of one's choice, one must know how to show oneself off, and looks, grimaces and contortions count.... This is what the beautiful spectacle observed at the fountain of Ekisman is all about. - Niger - 1970

It is difficult to find a people with more sense of pomp and adornment than the Peul. At festivals, one can witness true competitions for male beauty. The Peul are extremely ostentatious - as far as poverty does not set natural limits to this. But it is most interesting to note that these men, whose effeminate demeanour conceals a legendary courage, like their neighbours, the Tuareg, know the ancient custom of the courtyard of love. At festivals, the participants never refrain from carrying this long sword, so similar to the takuba from the Hoggarm massif. They make up their faces with vivid colours, saffron yellow, red and white predominating, and one would come to no end to make an inventory of the jewels and amulets they are wont to spread out on these occasions. To win the approval of the lady of one's choice, one must know how to show oneself off, and looks, grimaces and contortions count.... This is what the beautiful spectacle observed at the fountain of Ekisman is all about. - Niger - 1970

Until a few decades ago, ethnography did not credit the Peul (Fula) with a prehistoric origin; but we did not yet know what prehistory has since revealed to us. This Bororo Peul, found between Abalak and In Gall, is a descendant of the Neolithic cattle herders. Although dark-skinned, but copper-coloured rather than black, the Peul may well be the heirs of the Neolithic people of Sudanese tradition, who had emerged from the mixture of several races, at least one of which came from the Mediterranean area. - Eskiman well - Niger - 1970

It is difficult to find a people with more sense of pomp and adornment than the Peul (Fula). At festivals, one can witness true competitions for male beauty. The Peul are extremely ostentatious - as far as poverty does not set natural limits to this. But it is most interesting to note that these men, whose effeminate demeanour conceals a legendary courage, like their neighbours, the Tuareg, know the ancient custom of the courtyard of love. At festivals, the participants never refrain from carrying this long sword, so similar to the takuba from the Hoggarm massif. They make up their faces with vivid colours, saffron yellow, red and white predominating, and one would come to no end to make an inventory of the jewels and amulets they are wont to spread out on these occasions. To win the approval of the lady of one's choice, one must know how to show oneself off, and looks, grimaces and contortions count.... This is what the beautiful spectacle observed at the fountain of Ekisman is all about. - Niger - 1970

It is difficult to find a people with more sense of pomp and adornment than the Peul. At festivals, one can witness true competitions for male beauty. The Peul are extremely ostentatious - as far as poverty does not set natural limits to this. But it is most interesting to note that these men, whose effeminate demeanour conceals a legendary courage, like their neighbours, the Tuareg, know the ancient custom of the courtyard of love. At festivals, the participants never refrain from carrying this long sword, so similar to the takuba from the Hoggarm massif. They make up their faces with vivid colours, saffron yellow, red and white predominating, and one would come to no end to make an inventory of the jewels and amulets they are wont to spread out on these occasions. To win the approval of the lady of one's choice, one must know how to show oneself off, and looks, grimaces and contortions count.... This is what the beautiful spectacle observed at the fountain of Ekisman is all about. - Niger - 1970

A Bororo herdsman in typical posture at the well of Ekisman - Niger - 1970

The bow is one of the "revolutionary" developments of the Neolithic. It had the same consequences for its owners as the first rifles. The posture of the Bororo-Peul hunter dressed in leather testifies to the permanence of the traditional gesture, holding his bow much like the one on the rock painting of Jabbaren, Tassili n' Ajjer. - Fountain of Eskiman - Niger - 1970

A flute player replaces the orchestra and supports the chorus of dancers with his instrument. The beat is given to him by clapping hands. The women, prize of this peaceful competition, show a very seductive demeanour ... - Fountain of Eskiman - Niger - 1970

A young Bororo with his typical features at the well of Ekisman - Niger - 1970

This simple tent is the dwelling of a family Bororo - Ekisman well - Niger - 1970

This young Peul wears the typical hat of the Zinder region - Southern Niger - 1970

Site of the rock engraving on the edge of the Ténéré desert - The man of Tagueït - Aïr - Niger - 2000

The Man of Tagueït - Rock engraving on the edge of the Ténéré desert - Aïr - Niger - 2000

Targi in the camp near the well of Faris - Air - Niger - 1992

The brother of Abakaoua, head of the Kel-Tedélé clan, with his son - Tezirzek well - Niger - Aïr - 1992

29 - Tagueït bas (Aïr). - Very schematic stippled engravings. The central figure does not clearly evoke equids. To its right, a figure with a bi-triangular garment and a head in an inverted U-shape. The central figure is 0.70 m tall.

30 - Tagueït bas (Aïr). - Figures with "ant head" (equids) set against a background of animals (domesticated?). Note the spears and round shields. The animals measure between 0.30 and 0.40 m in height.

330 - Aouanrhet (Tassili-n'Ajjer). - On the left, two standing figures. On the right, a coitus scene and figures that are hard to identify. The coitus scene measures 0.16 m in width.

485 - Séfar (Tassili-n'Ajjer). - Red ochre painting with white outlines. Time of the “round heads.” Perhaps we are witnessing an intimate scene depicting a couple and their child. This is a valid hypothesis. The figure on the right wears striped pants. Note the lack of muscle mass in the thighs, in contrast to the black bovid archers.

513 - Séfar (Tassili-n'Ajjer). - A couple painted in red ochre, consisting of an archer who may be in the act of picking one of the arrows (left side), and a woman following him, with both hands stretched downward; the fingers are painted with precision. A piece of the woman’s clothing is blown by the wind to her back. Definitely a Negroid type, as revealed by several skeletons found in the region. The woman measures 0.19 m.

571 - Tin-Tazarift (Tassili-n'Ajjer). – Pastoral scene in white and ochre, from reddish-brown to light brown. Note the cap worn by both the man and the child following him, in the top right. It closely resembles the cap still worn by children during circumcision. The man is 0.24 m tall.

591 - Tin-Teferist, near Séfar (Tassili-n'Ajjer). – The three figures painted in red ochre remind us of individuals with "dash heads", but it has already been stated that this dash is only the visible part of the head, with the rest covered by light hair, with the paint in most cases having disappeared. The "lancers" facing each other are dressed in a short tunic, tight at the waist and slightly flared at the base. The one on the left wears a sort of stole hanging from both sides of the neck. With his right hand, he holds the hand of a woman in a long tunic. The central figure is 0.55 m tall.

592 - Tiffeltest, near Séfar (Tassili-n'Ajjer). – A ruminant on the right, painted in dark ochre; at the top left, a couple in red ochre that could be a man and a woman. The most interesting feature is a quadrangular structure that could represent a dwelling. The depicted panel is 0.53 m wide. The animal on the right is 0.11 m tall.

602 - Tin-Kani (Tassili-n'Ajjer). - Ox painted in red-brown, with the coat depicted by tightly spaced curved lines. Opposite, two deers are treated in white. To the right, a man in red-brown holds a stick in his hand. The width of the panel depicted: 0.82 m.

606 - In ltinen (Tassili-n'Ajjer). - Two bovines and a calf (?) painted in dark ochre. The multiplicity of bovine depictions must reflect the actual importance of the herd during the great Pastoral Period. Nevertheless, it would probably be a mistake to imagine the region where it is found as the present-day Normandy. Evidence of this can be seen in the large herds of the Peuhls today.

607 - Ihérir (in the locality of Ahréné, Tassili-n'Ajjer). – Large ox painted with patterns intended to represent the coat. A comparison should be made with the bovine engraved at Tin-Terhert (photos 578 and 579).

608 - Fadnoun (Tassili-n'Ajjer). – This photo was taken next to the painted elephant presented in the introduction (photo 5). This fresco, painted in white and red ochre, is particularly vivid. It depicts men with canine-like heads, in dynamic poses. The overall scene, completed by animals, evokes a "reportage" style.

650 - Gonoa (Tibesti). - The engraving begins to show the damage from amateur photographers who do not hesitate to rub, wet, or coat it with various products, without concern for preserving this rare artwork. It depicts a naked man with a dog-like profile and harmonious proportions, despite the slightly elongated legs. He carries an unclear, short object on his right shoulder. It is engraved with shallow but regular lines, and the artist adhered to real anatomy for the body. The representation of the sex is direct and clear. Height of the figure: 1.87 m.

At the market in Jodhpur, local farmers sell their own produce, including red chili peppers and eggplants. – 1990

Onion fields in Central Java, in the area between the town of Magetan and the village of Sarangan on the slopes of the 3,265-metre-high Mount Lawu. The volcanic soil is extremely fertile, especially as the terraced fields are artificially irrigated. - 1990

Fish for sale at the market in Yogyakarta. – 1990

Production of manioc flour – near Cilacap in Central Java – 1990

Near Surakarta, also known as Solo, a historic city in Central Java. Pottery is one of the oldest crafts in Indonesia, with important centres in East Java (such as Tulungagung, Blitar and Kediri) and near Yogyakarta (Kasongan village). The picture shows a man carrying large traditional clay pots on a shoulder yoke, which is a common method of transporting goods in rural areas. - 1990

Siesta on a becak in Ujung Pandang (Makassar) – Sulawesi – 1990

A dock worker from Ujung Pandang (Makassar). The dockers' work is particularly strenuous in Indonesia's hot and humid climate. The island nation, which consists of a good dozen larger islands and a total of around thirteen thousand smaller ones, relies on a dense network of shipping connections, but now also has a well-developed airline network. – Sulawesi – 1990

The canoes are not only used for fishing, but also as a means of transport for firewood. – Banda Islands – Moluccas – 1990

Harvesting nutmeg is a multi-stage process that requires patience, as the nutmeg tree (Myristica fragrans) only yields significant crops after around 8 to 10 years. The fruits are ripe when the yellow, peach-like shell bursts open, revealing the red seed coat (mace). Harvesting is possible throughout the year, with the main season often falling during the rainy season. The fruits are either picked from the tree using long bamboo poles (with a small basket attached to the end, called a gaigai) or collected from the ground once they have fallen. – Banda – Moluccas – 1990

The nutmegs are either picked from the tree using long bamboo poles (with a small basket attached to the end, called a gaigai) or collected from the ground once they have fallen. – Banda – Moluccas – 1990

The small farmers of Ternate bring their harvest of dried and shelled nutmegs to the island's capital of the same name to sell to buyers. The nuts are weighed using simple running scales. The buyer acts as an intermediary between the export companies and the small producers. Unfortunately, the proceeds are not always commensurate with the effort involved. – 1990

In the Moluccas, coconuts are traditionally transported using a carrying pole (a yoke, often called a pikulan locally). – Tidore – 1990

Coconut palm on Ternate – Moluccas – 1990

The picture shows an elderly man on the island of Ambon wearing a traditional headdress known as a peci, songkok or kopiah. This type of cylindrical cap is commonly worn in Muslim cultures and is often elaborately embroidered. – Moluccas – 1990

Passing the time with a game of draughts at the market in Ambon – Moluccas – 1990

In the Moluccas, a carrying pole (a yoke, often called a pikulan locally) is a traditional and widely used method of transporting goods, crops or purchases. – Lontar Island, also known as Banda Besar – Moluccas – 1990

Sleeping man in front of the ancient Kathiresan temple, dedicated to the god of war Murugan. – Colombo – 1990

At the market in Kandy, a man dressed in traditional clothing offers small fruits for sale. At first glance, the fruits resemble tomatoes, but they are actually Indian jujubes, also known as ‘Sri Lankan apples’ or simply ‘ber’. They taste crisp and sweet like apples and are eaten fresh or dried. – 1990

A man sells moringa pods at the market in Kandy. These long, green pods come from the horseradish tree (Moringa oleifera) and are cultivated as a vegetable. They are rich in vitamins and minerals. – Sri Lanka – 1990

Street scene in Negombo, north of Colombo. In villages and sometimes even in larger towns in Sri Lanka, ox carts were long the preferred means of transport, used to carry both people and goods. – 1990

Fish market in Matara, Sri Lanka. The scene is typical of fish markets on the south-west coast of the country, where fishermen sell their daily catch directly at the harbour or on the beach. – 1990

An elderly man walking through the streets of Galle with an umbrella and a walking stick. - 1990

A fisherman from the Negombo area on the west coast of Sri Lanka – 1990

A zebu pulls a traditional cart (also known as a bullock cart), heavily laden with coir rope. At that time, such carts were an essential means of transport for agricultural produce and goods. – Trivandrum (now Thiruvananthapuram) – 1990

This man is carrying a huge load of coconut fibre on his head. This scene is typical of rural areas in South Asia, particularly in India or Sri Lanka. The fibrous material is obtained from the outer husk of coconuts. Coconut fibre is a versatile natural product. It is used to make ropes, mats, brushes and even for soil improvement in agriculture. – Kerala – 1990

A sturdy wooden cart with large, iron-rimmed spoked wheels, drawn by two white oxen. It is heavily laden with numerous jute sacks, which probably contain grain, rice or other agricultural produce. – Kollam, near Trivandrum (now Thiruvananthapuram) – 1990

An impressive image that illustrates an extraordinary feat of physical strength. This man is balancing a large number of metal barrels on his head as he walks down a street. Even though the barrels are presumably empty, the volume and weight of the metal place a massive strain on his neck and back. – Trivandrum (now Thiruvananthapuram) – Kerala – 1990

A fascinating moment capturing the coexistence of tradition and modernity in India. It depicts a street scene typical of the country’s rural regions or smaller towns, where old and new modes of transport share the same space. The yellow lorry is a classic model from Tata Motors, recognisable by its distinctive logo. These vehicles are often artistically decorated with colourful patterns or religious symbols. In direct contrast to this is the traditional cart in the foreground. The driver sits calmly amongst his cargo, whilst the heavily laden oxen plough their way forward – a sight that has scarcely changed for centuries. - Kollam (Quilon) - Near Trivandrum (now Thiruvananthapuram) - 1990

The town of Quilon lies sixty kilometres north of Trivandrum, the capital of the south-western Indian state of Kerala, on the Malabar Coast. The planters still often transport their spice harvests – mainly pepper, chilli and cardamom – to the buyers in the town using old-fashioned ox-drawn carts. From Quilon, the sacks of spices are transported by lorry to Kerala’s main port, Cochin, situated 120 kilometres to the north, from where they are shipped all over the world. – 1990

This photograph shows a boat-building workshop in the backwaters region of Kollam (Quilon) in Kerala, India. It depicts wooden fishing boats that have been pulled ashore on rails for maintenance work. A distinctive feature of the region are the dense groves of palm trees in the background, which are typical of Kerala’s waterways. – Journey to Allepey – 1990

A scene from one of the most historic and bustling commercial hubs in Kozhikode (Calicut), Kerala. Hand-pulled carts remain an integral part of logistics in the market’s narrow alleys to this day. Whilst modern lorries bring goods into the city, these workers – often referred to as ‘coolies’ – handle the final distribution to the warehouses. The jute sacks on the cart most likely contain rice, dried fruit or spices, the typical goods traded in this district. – 1990

As the streets in Kumily’s market districts are often narrow and bustling, traders rely on the tremendous strength of manual labourers to transport goods to the warehouses. The sacks often contain valuable goods such as cardamom, pepper or cinnamon, which are harvested from the surrounding plantations of Kumily and Thekkady. Kumily is regarded as the region’s most important spice trading centre. – Kerala – 1990

The ‘R.D. Drug House’ is a well-known pharmaceutical retailer in the historic district of Mattancherry in Kochi (formerly Cochin), Kerala. The elaborately designed blue wooden door is a classic example of the blend of colonial and regional styles found in Mattancherry. Many of these old buildings originally served as spice warehouses. In India, pharmacies or wholesalers of medicines are often referred to as ‘Drug Houses’. – 1990

A worker empties a jute sack of ginger roots onto a large tarpaulin to sort them or dry them further. Scenes like this are typical of the historic spice warehouses and factories in Calicut, which are renowned for their centuries-old spice trade. – 1990

Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) originates from southern India and Sri Lanka and belongs to the ginger family. In India, it is grown particularly in the states of Kerala (e.g. in the Idukki district) and Tamil Nadu, in shaded gardens or plantations. The pod-like fruits are harvested by hand when they turn a bright green colour. Each pod contains small black seeds inside, which are responsible for the intense aroma. Cardamom is one of the world’s most valuable spices and is often referred to as ‘green gold’ due to its significance. – Kerala – 1990

This man is holding a bowl of fresh green cardamom pods. Cardamom is considered the third most expensive spice in the world, after saffron and vanilla. It is prized for its complex, aromatic flavour and is used in a variety of ways. Cardamom is an essential ingredient in curries, teas (such as masala chai), desserts and baked goods worldwide. In traditional medicine, it is valued for its digestive and anti-inflammatory properties. – Kerala – Calicut – 1990

The rice fields are flooded, which is the traditional method of rice cultivation. The water not only aids growth but also naturally suppresses weeds. A woman in a colourful sari walks along a narrow embankment that separates the individual fields. These embankments serve both as footpaths and to regulate the water level. In the background, a farmer ploughs a flooded field with a plough drawn by water buffaloes. – Kannur area – 1990

A farmer ploughs a flooded field using a plough drawn by water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis). The use of wooden ploughs and teams of oxen or water buffaloes is a centuries-old method that is still practised today in many rural areas. – Kannur district – 1990

A scene at Crawford Market (now Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Mandai) in Mumbai. The men, known as hamals (porters), balance goods in large woven baskets on their heads. – 1990

This market stall offers a fresh selection of fruit and vegetables typical of Indian cuisine. The large baskets in the foreground and top right are bursting with bright green chillies, which provide the necessary heat. The vendor is holding a large bunch of fresh coriander in his hands – an essential herb for almost every curry. Fresh ginger, tomatoes and aubergines are also on display. On the right-hand side, small green mangoes are stacked into a neat pyramid. These are often used for pickles (achar) or salads. – Crawford Market – Mumbai – 1990

A scene at the bustling Crawford Market (also known as Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Market) in Mumbai, India. A market trader sits amidst a colourful array of fresh vegetables, artfully displayed in baskets and on cloths. – 1990

Portrait of a man wearing a turban and a distinctive moustache. The turban is made up of long strips of fabric wrapped around the head using a specific method. In India, turbans often serve as a distinguishing feature for regions or communities. The red dot on the forehead is a tika (or tilak), a religious and cultural symbol in Hinduism. – Crawford Market – Mumbai – 1990

Portrait of an elderly man wearing a distinctive turban and a grey beard. He is dressed in traditional clothing and looks directly into the camera, creating an intense and characterful expression. – Crawford Market – Mumbai – 1990

The photograph shows an Indian market vendor at a vegetable stall offering a wide selection of fresh produce: fresh ginger, hot green chillies, green leafy vegetables and herbs, often including mint, coriander or watercress. – Crawford Market – Mumbai – 1990

A spice trader in Mumbai, in the state of Maharashtra. The spice market is the largest market in this port city on the Indian coast. During the British colonial era it was known as Crawford Market; today it is called Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Market. As well as spices, poultry, fruit, vegetables and much more are on offer here. Apart from ginger (next to his right knee) and fresh green chillies, this trader also sells herbs, lettuce and onions. – 1990

A traditional Indian ox cart in Udaipur, pulled by two zebu cattle (humpback cattle), which are well adapted to the warm climate. A striking feature is the painted horns (here in blue and yellow), which is a common tradition in many parts of India to adorn the animals or highlight their significance to the owner. The wooden cart has large, traditional spoked wheels. For a long time, such vehicles formed the backbone of rural logistics before being replaced in many areas by motorised vehicles such as tractors or auto-rickshaws. – 1990

In Udaipur, elephants are a familiar sight in the streets, often used for ceremonial purposes or tourism, and are also firmly embedded in the cityscape in the form of impressive stone sculptures. In the background, the approach to Jagdish Temple, an important Hindu temple guarded by two imposing stone elephants. The façade itself is adorned with detailed carvings of elephants, horsemen and dancers. – 1990

This photograph shows the upper section of the steep staircase leading to the main entrance of the renowned Jagdish Temple in Udaipur. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the Preserver of the Universe, who is worshipped here as Lord Jagannath. The temple is renowned for its intricate stone carvings and sculptures, which depict scenes from Hindu mythology as well as dancers and musicians. In the background of the picture, these detailed friezes above the entrance area are clearly visible. - 1990

Card games played in public spaces are an integral part of everyday social life in Udaipur, the ‘City of Lakes’. Older men in particular often meet in the afternoon to play cards together. Popular spots include shady corners on pavements, temple steps or small forecourts in the old town. These gatherings are often lively and convivial. Many of the men here also wear traditional Rajasthani turbans and simple white clothing, which makes the scene very characteristic of the region. - 1990

Following the first monsoon rains, a farmer in the Udaipur area leads a team of two white zebus (humpback cattle) to prepare the ground for sowing. A woman in a yellow sari carries a shallow bowl on her head, containing the seeds for the upcoming sowing. - 1990

The photograph depicts traditional farming in India, showing a farming couple ploughing a field with the help of oxen or zebus. This scene is typical of rural areas where hand-operated wooden ploughs are still used to prepare the soil for sowing. – Udaipur – 1990

The photograph captures traditional rural life in the Aravalli Hills, in the region between Udaipur and Narlai. In this area, agriculture is still largely characterised by traditional methods. Ploughing with oxen is a common method of tilling the soil in this hilly and often arid landscape. The area around Udaipur is known for the cultivation of cereals such as maize and wheat, as well as pulses. – 1990

In the area around Udaipur in Rajasthan, there are still a few places where you can see the traditional Persian waterwheel (often known locally as a ‘rahat’ or ‘araghatta’) in action. Unlike electric pumps, waterwheels draw water more slowly, which allows for a more sustainable use of the often scarce groundwater reserves. – 1990

This irrigation system in the Aravalli Hills near Udaipur is not a Rahat, but a Charas or Chades, which operates on a rope-pulley system. Oxen pull a rope up a ramp to hoist a large leather bag (the Charas) from a deep well. As soon as the bag reaches the top, it empties into the canal. There is no rotating wheel with many buckets here. – 1990

A traditional scene from rural India: a heavily laden ox cart is pulled by two zebu cattle. This mode of transport is a centuries-old tradition in India, which remains part of everyday life even today, particularly away from the main tourist routes. The cart is piled high with branches, which are presumably intended for use as firewood or building materials. The people on the cart are wearing the typical clothing of the rural population in regions such as Rajasthan. – Falna – 1990

The picture shows an zebu-driven water wheel, a traditional irrigation system known as a Rahat or Persian wheel. Oxen or bulls walk in a circle to turn a gear mechanism, which in turn drives a vertical wheel fitted with buckets (often made of clay or metal) attached by chains. The water is drawn from deep wells or rivers and channelled into irrigation canals to supply fields in rural areas. – Ranakpur – 1990

The picture shows an ox-driven water wheel, a traditional irrigation system known as a Rahat or Persian wheel. Oxen or bulls walk in a circle to turn a gear mechanism, which in turn drives a vertical wheel fitted with buckets (often made of clay or metal) attached by chains. The water is drawn from deep wells or rivers and channelled into irrigation canals to supply fields in rural areas. – Ranakpur – 1990

A man sits on the steps of the famous Adinath Temple in Ranakpur. This temple is renowned worldwide for its 1,444 individually carved marble pillars, none of which are alike. The bright red turban is a distinctive feature of the Rabari herdsmen. It symbolises honour and pride and also serves as practical protection against the Rajasthani sun. The flowers in the basket (often roses and marigolds) are sold as offerings for the religious rituals in the temple. Visitors purchase these to place them before the statue of Lord Adinath, the first Tirthankara (spiritual teacher) of the Jains. – 1990

The striking red headdress is a type of turban known locally as a pagri or safa. In Rajasthan, the turban is far more than just an item of clothing; it is a symbol of honour, pride and social status. The way a turban is wrapped, as well as its colour and pattern, often reveal the wearer’s origin, caste or profession. The magnificent white moustache is a sign of wisdom, masculinity and life experience in Marwari culture. – 1990

The scene captures everyday life in the Indian city of Desuri following rainfall, a common occurrence during the monsoon season. The puddle on the street creates a clear reflection of the passers-by and the surrounding architecture. – 1990

An elderly man, often referred to as a baba or sadhu, sits in a relaxed posture on a platform made of logs and ropes. He wears a light brown turban and has a distinctive full white beard. Desuri region – 1990

An elderly man in traditional dress from Jodhpur. His attire consists of a long white tunic (kurta) and loose, wrapped trousers (dhoti). On his head he wears a carefully wrapped, light-coloured turban (safa). In his hands he holds ritual or everyday objects, including an ornate metal vessel and lengths of fabric. – 1990

A traditional folk musician in typical regional costume, playing the historic stringed instrument known as the Ravanahattha. This is an ancient long-necked lute and one of the oldest known precursors of the modern violin. The body usually consists of a halved coconut covered with animal skin, and a long neck made of bamboo. The instrument has main and resonance strings, as well as a bow that is often decorated with small bells. – Jodhpur – 1990

Portrait of an elderly man from Jodhpur. He is wearing a traditional, colourful turban (pagri or safa). In the Rajasthan region, the way the turban is wrapped, its size and its pattern traditionally indicate the wearer’s caste, occupation and specific region of origin. In addition to its symbolic significance, the voluminous cotton fabric provides effective protection from the intense sunlight in desert regions. The colourfully patterned fabric of the turban is often designed in the regionally typical Leheriya (wave pattern) or Bandhani (tie-dye) style. – 1990

Street scene in Jodhpur – A family of three riding together on a bicycle. – 1990

At the market in Jodhpur, local farmers sell their own produce, in this case red chillies and aubergines. – 1990

A young trader sits behind a large pile of fresh green chillies at a market in Jodhpur. These are elongated, light-green chillies with a mild to medium heat, which are frequently used in Indian cuisine for stews or as a side dish (e.g. Mirchi Bajji or Jwala chillies). – 1990

A traditional street barber at work outdoors. He is cutting a customer’s hair using a hand-operated clipper. This style of haircutting is typical of the informal sector in countries such as India (often referred to as a ‘roadside barber’). – Jodhpur – 1990

A man in traditional dress from the Rajasthan region. The large, intricately wrapped turban protects him from the extreme desert heat. The colour and style of the wrap often indicate social status, caste or the exact region of origin. The distinctive, often elaborately curled moustache, paired with a full beard, is a traditional symbol of masculinity, pride and honour in Rajasthan. The necklace with a gold amulet (often an amulet pendant known as a Madaliya) traditionally serves as a symbol of protection or indicates religious devotion. – Jodhpur – 1990

The portrait depicts an elderly man from Jodhpur wearing a traditional, intricately wrapped turban (safa or pagri) and a distinctive, split beard. In the desert region of Rajasthan, the turban is a proud symbol of honour, social status and membership of a particular caste or community. In addition to its cultural significance, the large, loosely wrapped strip of cotton fabric serves as practical protection against the extreme heat and sandstorms of the Thar Desert. Plain, light-coloured or earth-toned turbans such as this one are frequently worn in everyday life by older men, farmers or shepherds in rural areas. – 1990

The city of Jodhpur has a long tradition of making these hand-woven brooms (Jharoo). There is even the well-known Arna Jharna open-air museum, which is dedicated to the culture, various designs and ethnological background of Indian brooms. In Rajasthan, these brooms are often hand-bound from dried palm leaves of the wild date palm (Khajur) or special, robust desert grasses. – 1990

Two elderly men from Jodhpur, wearing traditional turbans, are taking a smoke break. The men are squatting in a typical Indian resting position beside large jute sacks by the roadside. One man wears a voluminous, pure white turban, as is often seen in the daily life of older village communities in regions such as Jodhpur. The other man wears a colourful red turban with a bandhani pattern (a traditional Indian tie-dye technique). – Sardar Market (or Girdikot) in Jodhpur – 1990

This three-wheeled vehicle is a Tempo Hanseat, an iconic mode of transport that has been a familiar sight on Indian roads for decades. The vehicle was originally developed in the 1940s and 1950s by the German company Vidal & Sohn Tempo-Werke in Hamburg-Harburg. In 1958, the Indian company Firodia Ltd (later known as Bajaj Tempo and now Force Motors) entered into a partnership with Tempo-Werke. Production of the Hanseat continued under licence in India until the year 2000. Although it was designed as a light goods vehicle, owners frequently converted it. Fitted with bench seats and a canopy, it served as a shared taxi for large numbers of passengers in many regions of India – particularly in rural areas. The vehicle featured a distinctive front-wheel drive layout, with the engine positioned directly above the single front wheel. Legendary features included the extremely loud, rattling engine noise, starting the engine via a pull-cord under the bonnet, and the angled rear wheels, which only straightened up under heavy loads. – Jodhpur – 1990

Chibani is an elderly man from Jodhpur who wears a traditional, very colourful headdress. This type of turban is known locally as a safa or pagri (pagadi). In Rajasthani culture, the turban is far more than just an item of clothing. It symbolises pride, honour and the social status of the wearer. Its shape, colour and the way it is wrapped can provide clues as to the region, caste or occasion. – 1990

Chibani is an elderly man from Jodhpur who wears a traditional, very colourful headdress. The vibrant patterns are often based on traditional dyeing techniques such as bandhani or colourful woven designs. – 1990

Chibani is an elderly man from Jodhpur who wears a traditional, very colourful headdress. The vibrant patterns are often based on traditional dyeing techniques such as bandhani or colourful woven designs. In the hot desert regions of Rajasthan, the long, artfully wrapped strip of fabric effectively protects the head from the intense sunlight. – 1990

Chibani is an elderly man from Jodhpur who wears a traditional, very colourful headdress. This type of turban is known locally as a safa or pagri (pagadi). In Rajasthani culture, the turban is far more than just an item of clothing. It symbolises pride, honour and the social status of the wearer. Its shape, colour and the way it is wrapped can provide clues as to the region, caste or occasion. – 1990

Chibani is an elderly man from Jodhpur who wears a traditional, very colourful headdress. The vibrant patterns are often based on traditional dyeing techniques such as bandhani or colourful woven designs. In the hot desert regions of Rajasthan, the long, artfully wrapped strip of fabric effectively protects the head from the intense sunlight. – 1990

A traditional roadside barber (often referred to as a ‘roadside barber’), a common sight in public spaces in countries such as India, as seen here in Jodhpur. All that is needed for this makeshift salon is a simple blue wooden chair, a small table with a mirror, and barber’s tools. – 1990

This photograph was taken in the streets of Jodhpur. It captures the reality of life for an elderly homeless man sitting on the ground and eating his meal. Many people with no fixed abode live and sleep in the narrow market alleys around the historic Clock Tower and Sardar Market. – 1990

A bustling street scene in Jodhpur, where a camel cart – a traditional means of transport – makes its way through the modern traffic. The camel shares the road with motorbikes, buses and pedestrians. – 1990

In India, the scooter is seen as a symbol of the middle-class dream. It provides families with an affordable means of transport, and it is not uncommon for several people – often an entire family – to ride on a single vehicle at the same time. – Jodhpur – 1990

This young man is wearing a traditional Indian headdress known as a Jodhpuri Safa. This turban is usually made of cotton or georgette, and is often decorated with traditional patterns such as bandhani (tie-dye). It is frequently worn at weddings (as a groom’s safa) or other festive occasions. A safa often consists of a long strip of fabric (up to 8.5 metres) that is artfully wrapped around the head. – Jodhpur – 1990

An older man’s standing in Rajasthan is reflected in his traditional Rajasthani attire. The colourful, patterned turban is the most striking feature. It consists of a long strip of fabric and symbolises honour, pride and social status. The white top (angarkha, a tunic) with its small floral pattern is a traditional wrap-style garment. It is often tied at the side with cords. The red cloth around the waist serves as a belt and a decorative element. A long, well-groomed beard is often a sign of maturity and dignity in this region. – Jodhpur – 1990

A nomad from the Thar Desert (Rajasthan). The men who led the long caravans of camels towards the Indus Valley and on through the steppes of what is now Pakistan and Iran towards the Mediterranean, or upstream via the Khyber Pass towards Afghanistan and southern Russia, would likely have looked much the same. – Jodhpur – 1990

Threshing grain is a traditional agricultural technique in which grains are separated from the chaff by dropping them into the wind from a certain height. A woman lifts a basket to clean the grain in the wind, whilst a man sits on the ground and sifts the grain. It is likely to be pearl millet. In Hindi and the local Rajasthani language, this nutrient-rich grain is called bajra. It is extremely drought-resistant and a staple food for the people in this desert region (e.g. in the form of bajre ki roti, a flatbread). – Area around Jodhpur – 1990

A man is sitting on the ground, sifting the grain. It is likely pearl millet. In Hindi and the local language Rajasthani, this nutrient-rich grain is called bajra. It is extremely drought-resistant and a staple food for the people in this desert region (e.g. in the form of bajre ki roti, a flatbread). – Area around Jodhpur – 1990

A man from the Rabari community, an indigenous group of nomads and herders. Rabari men traditionally wear very large, voluminous white turbans. The way the turban is wrapped and the pattern (here a subtle floral print) can often provide clues as to the specific region or social status. Wearing large gold earrings and several beaded necklaces is an integral part of the male traditional costume and serves both as decoration and as an expression of wealth. – Jodhpur area – 1990

The photograph shows a man from Khuri wearing the region’s traditional headdress. His striking appearance, with his pink turban and thick moustache, is a classic symbol of Rajasthani culture and pride. In Rajasthan, the way a turban is wrapped can often reveal which village or caste a person comes from. A long, proudly worn moustache is regarded in Rajasthan as a sign of masculinity and prestige. – 1990

A musician from Khuri plays the kamaicha (also known as the kamayacha), one of the oldest stringed instruments in the world. It is carved from a single piece of mango wood. The soundbox is large and circular, and covered with goatskin. The instrument has 17 strings. Three main strings are made of goatskin, whilst the remaining steel or copper strings serve as resonating strings. It is played with a bow and is known for its deep, resonant sound, often described as the ‘heart and soul’ of Rajasthani folk music. – 1990

A nomad travelling with two dromedaries in the village of Khuri in the Thar Desert. These animals are perfectly adapted to the hot, dry conditions of the desert. They carry wooden saddles or racks used for transporting water, firewood or trade goods. – 1990

A scene from the traditional village of Khuri. The photograph captures the essence of rural life in this arid region, where architecture and craftsmanship are closely intertwined with the surrounding environment. In the background, a couple can be seen at a spinning wheel (charkha), a symbol of the traditional production of yarn from wool or cotton, which is still widespread in the villages of the Thar Desert. The open courtyard in front of the house is the centre of daily life, where people work, eat and socialise. – 1990

The Meghwal are known as a community of carpet weavers and produce handmade items from camel, goat and sheep’s wool. The division of labour is traditionally defined, with women combing, cleaning and spinning the wool, whilst the men usually weave it into carpets or traditional fabrics. The hand-spun wool is used to create high-quality carpets, blankets and shawls featuring traditional patterns. The device shown in the picture is a classic Indian charkha. The technique of spinning whilst seated on the floor has remained virtually unchanged for centuries. – Khuri – 1990

A man wearing a white turban sits in front of a traditional mud house in Khuri. The house is made of mud, which provides natural cooling in the desert region of Rajasthan. The decorative patterns on the wall are characteristic of the regional village style. – 1990

The picture shows a man tying a turban, a traditional headdress that holds deep symbolic significance in many cultures – particularly in India. The orange turban shown here is often referred to as a pagri or dastar. The bright orange colour (often called ‘kesariya’ or saffron) symbolises courage, self-sacrifice and spirituality. In Rajasthan, the wrapping techniques and colours often vary from village to village and can even indicate social status or the occasion (such as a wedding). – Khuri – 1990

A man dressed in traditional Rajasthani attire steps out of his house in the village of Khuri in the Thar Desert. He is wearing a striking orange turban and is holding an antique flintlock musket (known locally as a ‘torador’). In the foreground are bulbous clay vessels (amphorae), traditionally used to store water or grain. – 1990

This man, wearing a bright orange turban (safa or pagri), is holding a rifle. It is a torador, a classic Indian matchlock musket. A striking feature is the curved stock, which is often decorated with inlays of ivory or bone. These rifles were used in northern and central India from the 16th century well into the 19th century. They served both for protection and for hunting big game. The barrels were often elaborately chiselled and the stocks painted or inlaid with precious materials. – Khuri – 1990

A potter (Kumhaar) in Rajasthan shaping ceramic vessels on a traditional, hand-operated potter’s wheel made of clay. The potter uses a heavy wheel made of stone or hardened clay, which is often set in motion with a stick. Natural clay is used to create vessels such as cups, jugs and pots. – Khuri – 1990

Khuri is renowned for preserving ancient craft techniques, which are often practised as a sideline to farming and tourism. In this region, weavers often produce dhurries (flat-woven rugs) or pattu (traditional woollen blankets). The loom is a classic horizontal floor loom. It is portable and perfectly suited to life in the desert. The weaver uses a heavy wooden comb to beat the weft threads of coarse wool (often from sheep or camels) firmly into the warp. The fabrics are extremely durable and are often decorated with geometric patterns typical of the local folklore of the Thar Desert. – 1990

The scene captures a typical, bustling moment at a public transport bus stop in Deshnoke, characterised by improvisation and a dense crowd. Deshnoke (also known as Deshnok) is a small town in the Indian state of Rajasthan, around 30 km south of Bikaner. – 1990

Cattle market in Phalodi, situated in the heart of the Thar Desert between Jaisalmer and Bikaner. Although camel caravans have become very rare, dromedaries remain important as riding and pack animals in the desert. – 1990

Portrait of an elderly man from the rural areas of Rajasthan. The artfully wrapped turban provides protection from the strong sun, whilst the gold earrings are a traditional form of jewellery for men in this region. – Phalodi – 1990

A man with a full beard and a traditional turban (often referred to as a pagri or pugree). This headdress consists of a long, unsewn piece of cloth that is artfully wrapped around the head. – Phalodi – 1990

A peanut seller (often called a ‘Mungfali-Wala’) stands behind a four-wheeled wooden cart piled high with unshelled peanuts. In the middle stands a small pot, often containing hot coals, to keep the peanuts warm and crispy. A classic pressure lamp (Petromax) can also be seen, which is used for lighting at dusk and in the evening hours. – Phalodi – 1990

Camel carts such as these are a typical and traditional means of transport in the rural areas of Rajasthan. The cart, pulled by a dromedary, is heavily laden with large tree trunks. It is fitted with modern, pneumatic rubber tyres, which make it easier to pull along tarmac roads. – Pokhran – 1990

The photograph shows the impressive architecture of Jaisalmer Fort in the Indian state of Rajasthan. The entire structure is built from local sandstone, which has been assembled without mortar using precise interlocking joints. One can also see the typical narrow, ascending alleys, which served a defensive purpose, as well as small, ornate window openings (jharokhas) and stone corbels. In the foreground, a person can be seen wearing traditional Rajasthani clothing with a bright orange turban, which emphasises the region’s distinctive character. – 1990

A lively street scene in a historic, narrow alleyway typical of the architecture in Jaisalmer. The walls and floor are rendered in warm, earthy tones, some adorned with white frames around the doors. The paths are narrow and paved with large stone slabs, which is typical of old fortified towns in Rajasthan. In the middle of the alley, a man stands by a handcart laden with large metal containers, presumably selling milk or water. – 1990

An elderly man sits on an intricately carved wooden chair, waiting for customers. He is wearing a traditional turban (pagri), a khaki-coloured jacket and white trousers (dhoti). An everyday scene from Jaisalmer in Rajasthan. – 1990

These elderly men are engaged in deep conversation outdoors, whilst a little girl watches from the background. The group is standing in front of an ornately decorated, sandstone-coloured wall, typical of the architecture in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. – 1990

A street scene in Jaisalmer, showing a traditional cobbler (mochi) working outdoors while a customer wearing an orange turban squats in front of him. – Rajasthan – 1990

A tailor sits engrossed in his work at his mechanical sewing machine in the historic desert town of Jaisalmer. The window frame is a typical example of the delicate jharokhas (artfully carved sandstone balconies) for which Rajasthani architecture is famous. – 1990

Dromedaries and their guides near the city of Jaisalmer. These animals no longer carry spices, but instead transport tourists on excursions in the surrounding area. – 1990

Every Tuesday, there is a camel market in the Upper Egyptian village of Dirwan. Most of these dromedaries come from Sudan and have been brought here in caravans. – 1984

In Bir-Abbad, Upper Egypt, dromedaries are being watered at a watering hole. This watering hole is located on an old caravan route between the Red Sea and the Nile Valley. – 1984

Four elderly men are enjoying the warm spring sunshine and reminiscing about days gone by. A typical street scene from Istanbul in Turkey. Such authentic moments, featuring elderly gentlemen sitting on wooden benches, have been a familiar sight in the cityscape of this metropolis on the Bosphorus for decades. – 1989

In the streets of Istanbul, one often comes across street vendors selling the characteristic ring-shaped bread to passers-by. The city’s location on the Bosphorus, where the Sea of Marmara meets the Black Sea and where Europe meets Asia Minor, has shaped its development; as Constantinople and Byzantium, it enjoyed centuries of prosperity. Istanbul’s many architectural monuments bear witness to this history, which is comparable in significance to that of Rome. – 1989

The Egyptian Bazaar in Istanbul was built on the site of the former Venetian Market, opposite the Galata Bridge and behind the Yeni Mosque. The elongated building is topped with low domes. Amidst an atmosphere of oriental scents and mystery, every conceivable item is on offer here, including, of course, a wealth of spices. – 1989

Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar is situated in the heart of the old town. The first market halls were built in 1461 on the site of an old wooden market square and were used exclusively for the wool and silk trade. Gradually, however, the bazaar opened up to other trades and developed into a proper neighbourhood. This gigantic marketplace has eighteen gates, and nearly four thousand shops are crammed along the grid-like layout of arcades, streets and alleys. In the past, specific sections were reserved for each trade, which is no longer so strictly the case today. Nevertheless, carpet dealers, jewellers, leather goods and clothing sellers, for example, are still concentrated in certain sectors of the bazaar. – 1989

The famous, extremely picturesque Hooy spice shop in Amsterdam has been in business since 1743. It is one of the few remaining reminders of a bygone era when spices played a dominant role in the economic life of the Netherlands. – 1990

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