The Captive
U.S.A., Ft. Frederick, Maryland 2016
Portrait of a man posing in American Indian costume. As a hobby and to sell his pottery, he partakes in re-enactments of the Revolutionary era. He styled himself as a white man who was kidnapped by the Indians when he was a child.
When I asked about the black stain covering half of his head, he explained that this was customary among the Native Americans at the time. His crown of feathers, he said, was also authentic to those days. Now that reminded me of the Hamar people of Ethiopia. I think he took some liberties with the nose-ring and ear-rings, but still it’s the overall effect that is important.
To see the authentic Hamar of Omo Valley click the links below.
The man’s appearance was riveting. His rather sad-looking, pale blue eyes contrasted with the dark make-up. I turned to black and white, once again, when I couldn’t get the colors to satisfy myself.
I was happy to visit this re-enactment at Fort Frederick. It was a great way to practice photography. The participants, all dressed in costume, were eager to pose. They were proud of their costume. I recommend this to you. “Get out of town”, as my photography teacher used to say. We all need to practice and re-enactments are the perfect place.