Crown of Caps

Crown of Caps

During my time in Ethiopia’s Omo Valley, I visited a village of the Mursi tribe. One afternoon, as the sun began to set and cast a warm glow over everything, I met a young Mursi girl who immediately caught my attention. She wore a headdress made from metal bottle caps, all carefully woven together with twine. It was a unique blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern materials.

She was dressed in a robe with shades of pink and black, and there was a quiet confidence about her. Her gaze was lifted slightly upward, not directly at me but toward something in the distance. With one arm folded across her chest and her left hand resting on her right shoulder, she stood with a dignity that belied her age.

I learned that the Mursi often incorporate found materials into their attire, and the bottle cap crown is a perfect example of their resourcefulness. It’s a way for them to adapt to the changing world while still holding onto their cultural identity.

The village was full of life—children playing, women chatting and working, the sounds of cattle in the distance. The air was warm, but a gentle breeze made it comfortable. The atmosphere was both peaceful and vibrant.

Photographing her felt significant. I wanted to capture not just her image but the strength and pride she seemed to embody. To me, she represented the resilience of the Mursi people and their commitment to preserving their heritage.

I hope that when others see this photograph, they can feel a connection to her story and appreciate the enduring spirit of her community.