Tuesday, April 30, 2013

Henna

Becky's Hennaed Hands, Al Ain, UAE  © Doug Hickok  All Rights Reserved



The tradition of decorating hands, arms and feet with ornate tattoos made from the reddish ink of the henna plant dates back thousands of years to the Bronze Age. This custom of applying body art is still practiced today. It is especially important for Emirati women in their preparation for the biggest of celebrations... a wedding.

 Becky and Debi had a henna night of their own during our visit to Al Ain. Beautiful flora patterns were selected from samples hanging on the wall. Then a layer of henna paste was applied. When the paste dried, it crumbled away leaving a temporary tattoo which lasts several weeks before coming off completely.

 In this image Becky is wearing a brightly colored kandora, a gift from our hosts.

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19 comments:

  1. Cezar and LéiaApril 30, 2013 at 1:39 AM

    wow so delicate and beautiful henna painting.Thanks for the explanation about this culture, so different, but really interesting!
    I think it's beautiful but I'm not sure if I would do this henna painting in my hands, even if it's not permanent, I won't be comfortable with this idea. But that kandora...wow I'm envious here!I would like to wear one like that!Wonderful colors and so chic! :)
    Hugs
    Léia

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  2. London CallerApril 30, 2013 at 4:58 AM

    Can I have the origin of this word, henna, please? ;o)
    Henna is quite popular among Indians in Malaysia.
    I thought it was an Indian word...
    Just checked its etymology, ha ha... It's Arabic!
    Been enjoying your Arabic Word of the Day.

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  3. ArndApril 30, 2013 at 6:21 AM

    Your superb travel photographs provide a fascinating glimpse into a, for me, unknown world. Love the amazing burst of colors in this one!

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  4. Monica S EngellApril 30, 2013 at 7:08 AM

    Wow, Doug... Your photos from UAE are just fantastic! I can't wait to see more!

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  5. brattcatApril 30, 2013 at 7:11 AM

    exquisite, from the tips of her fingers to the sleeves of her robe.

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  6. Photo AttractionApril 30, 2013 at 10:34 AM

    This is art!
    Both the decoration and also the photo! Vibrant colors and a very smart background.

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  7. donApril 30, 2013 at 11:33 AM

    A fine example of this historic practice. I like the rich, vivid colors.

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  8. Laura AbigailApril 30, 2013 at 12:43 PM

    Had a henna tattoo once, mine was a lot less impressive :)

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  9. georgeApril 30, 2013 at 2:41 PM

    Gorgeous...colourful and vivacious photography...

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  10. Adrian ParkApril 30, 2013 at 5:14 PM

    I always thought of the word "cacophony" as a negative descriptor but this cacophony of colours is quite beautiful. Very nicely executed.

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  11. john4jackApril 30, 2013 at 6:33 PM

    i love this. it is a great tradition

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  12. FriedaMay 1, 2013 at 3:41 PM

    What a beautiful tradition. Lovely! I tried to do such tattoos once with my friends (but our results were not as perfect...)

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  13. yzMay 2, 2013 at 5:17 AM

    beautiful shot

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  14. franzMay 2, 2013 at 11:30 AM

    the beautifully drawn tattoo blends in wonderfully with the gorgeous pattern of the brightly coloured dress ....
    i bet becky won't wash her hands with the same vehemence now as before ... ;-)

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  15. E.L.T. PhotographyMay 2, 2013 at 6:38 PM

    Truly beautiful. One of the great ways to embrace the culture...

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  16. RemusMay 5, 2013 at 2:28 PM

    Wow.
    An explosion of color and shapes.
    Fantastic photo.

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  17. ChristopherMay 6, 2013 at 1:33 PM

    Wow, that's stunningly beautiful!

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  18. rianMay 22, 2013 at 11:52 PM

    it sure goes well with her brightly colored dress, well done!

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  19. dom lorthaMay 30, 2013 at 2:39 PM

    So colorful!! 5* to my eyes!! Wonderful! Congrats!
    Have a nice day.

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