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Theme

headdress, body modifications, clothing/ornament, colonial administration, local authority, portrait

Photographer

Armand Joseph Oscar Hutereau (°1875 - †1914)

Place of production

Democratic Republic of the Congo > Province Orientale > Aruwimi & Uele > Uele

Legend

After the conquering of the colonial territory, local chiefs were incorporated in colonial rule. African rulers of 'chefferies' who accepted the authority of the Congo Free State, were given a medal as a sign of recognition. Later on, this recognition turned out not to be a gift, as the decorated chiefs were held responsible for providing porters, labourers and food to white people. However, colonialism wasn’t one-way traffic during this period. Figureheads were often appointed in the 'chefferies' to protect the real chief.

Original legend

Le chef Avuru Gura Bavungura.

Inventory number

AP.0.0.11486




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