Scarification—intentional cuts or burns that heal into raised patterns—has been practiced across many African cultures for centuries. These markings were never random; they acted as identity, beauty, ...

African Postcard collection, EEPA 1985-014, Eliot Elisofon Photographic Archives, National Museum of African Art, Smithsonian Institution. Accompanying text on verso reads, "Elisabethville, 30 Janvier ...

African Postcard collection, EEPA 1985-014, Eliot Elisofon Photographic Archives, National Museum of African Art, Smithsonian Institution. Manuscript message and address on verso, message reads, " ...