China,
Raised Manchu shoes
19th century,Chinese The Manchu peoples did not subscribe to the custom of footbinding practiced widely throughout China. Manchu footwear, for both men and women, had its own peculiarities, however. Although the foot itself was not reshaped, the soles were elevated on platforms two to four inches high. Women’s shoes, like this one, were more elaborately decorated than men’s, with bright embroidery on colored silk. The hooflike shape of the pedestal serves to stabilize the wearer.
Sami man in a winter coat of fur (pesk) from Salten in Nordland County, Norway. En samisk mann i pesk fra Salten i Nordland. Foto av Marcus Selmer, 1857-1870
The Hamars are a people of East Africa living in southwestern Ethiopia in a fertile area of the Omo Valley. The gracious Hamar women, freeing pride and dignity even in the midst of the bustling weekly market, are easily spotted with their characteristic outfits. They take pride in their dress and accessories and win the prize as the most decorated of the Omo people. The traditional dress code for unmarried Hamar girls includes elegant cowrie-shell collars, seeded or glass-beaded necklaces, and decorated goatskin clothing.
