The magnificent costume of the Herero of Namibia, southern Africa, is a stark reminder of the country's tumultuous past. In the late 19th century, the influence of missionaries and traders in German Southwest Africa led to the adoption by the Herero of the European dress of the day. Over time, the voluminous gowns, completed by a cattle-horn-shaped headdress, came to represent the cultural identity of the Herero women. The men's ceremonial dress also harks back to colonial times: following the brutal war of 1904, the Herero adapted the uniforms of German soldiers for their own Otruppe ('troops') movement. In Conflict and Costume, acclaimed photographer Jim Naughten captures the colourful Herero attire in a series of spectacular portraits. Set against the Namibian landscape, these dramatic images show the striking costumes and their proud owners to full effect: men in elaborate, home-made paramilitary uniforms, and women in floor-length frocks with matching horns. Dr Lutz Marten contributes an insightful text that places the dress in its historical context.

About the Author
JIM NAUGHTEN is an award-winning portrait photographer based in London. He has exhibited his work internationally, and his book Re-enactors was published in 2009. LUTZ MARTEN is Professor of General and African Linguistics at the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London.

Reviews
'an amazing visual publication showing this tribe's magnificent costumes, which are a real fashion statement. Words won't do this book justice: you have to see it for yourself!' - SIR PAUL SMITH, MR PORTER 'These gorgeous images - left me in awe at the beauty of this tribe and their countryside. The portraits exude strength and regality, which is only intensified by their unique costume and stark background.' -BLACK BOX BLOG '[Naughten's] ethereal portraits present pride, strength and a wonderfully unique sense of fashion - jaw-dropping images' -HUFFINGTON POST 'This collection - celebrates not only a way of dress but more importantly, the survival of a culture and sense of identity.' -MONSTERS AND CRITICS 'Naughten's portraits are as majestic as the poeple he photographs, imparting a feeling of beauty nd power that many in the West rarely consider when they think of Africa today.' -LE JOURNAL DE LA PHOTOGRAPHIE 'Riveting and evocative photos - Merrell Publishers did an incredible job - lovers of history, art, culture and costume will love this book, but then so would anyone with an eye for gorgeous photography.' -AMOXCALLI



Book Information
ISBN 9781858946009
Author Jim Naughten
Format Hardback
Page Count 108
Imprint Merrell Publishers Ltd
Publisher Merrell Publishers Ltd