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A SAVAGE OF NEW CALEDONIA Date: 1817
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A SAVAGE OF NEW CALEDONIA Date: 1817
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 20951809
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1817 Caledonia Caledonian Pacific Savage Racial
EDITORS COMMENTS
A Savage of New Caledonia," an intriguing and evocative image captured in 1817, offers a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of the Pacific Islands, specifically New Caledonia. The photograph, which can be found in the extensive collection of Mary Evans Prints Online, presents a powerful and unfiltered portrayal of a Caledonian native, his dark, expressive eyes locked with the viewer's, as he adorns himself in traditional body paint and ornate feather headdress. The racial and ethnic distinctions of the time period are palpable in this image, as the European fascination with the exotic and the unknown is evident. However, this photograph transcends the mere categorization of racial types and instead invites us to appreciate the unique beauty and complexity of this individual's identity. New Caledonia, an archipelago located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, was first discovered by Europeans in the late 16th century, and by the early 19th century, contact between the indigenous people and European explorers had become more frequent. This encounter led to the exchange of goods, ideas, and diseases, as well as the eventual colonization of the islands. "A Savage of New Caledonia" serves as a poignant reminder of this pivotal moment in history, when two distinct worlds collided, and the complexities and intricacies of each were forever altered. The photograph invites us to reflect on the rich cultural heritage of the Caledonian people and to celebrate their resilience and strength in the face of change. Moreover, the image challenges us to question the ways in which we have historically defined and categorized people based on their racial or ethnic backgrounds. Instead, it encourages us to see the humanity and individuality in each person, regardless of their origins. This powerful and evocative image is a testament to the enduring allure and mystery of the Pacific Islands and the people who call them home.
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