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Ivory - Vili Tribesmen - Elephant Hunters
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Ivory - Vili Tribesmen - Elephant Hunters
Ivory trade in the Congo, Africa - Vili Tribesmen - Famed elephant Hunters. The photograph was taken by Robert Visser, a German merchant who managed Cacao and Coffee plantations. He took approx. 500 pictures whilst in Africa. Date: circa 1904
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Media ID 14116750
© Mary Evans / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection
Congo Congolese Elephant Ivory Tribal Tribesmen Tusk Tusks Villagers Vili
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This photograph, taken by Robert Visser in approximately 1904, showcases a group of Vili Tribesmen from the Congo region of Africa, proudly displaying their freshly hunted elephant tusks. The Vili people, also known as the Bapondje or Vili-Bapondje, were renowned elephant hunters, utilizing their traditional hunting methods to provide ivory for trade. Robert Visser, a German merchant, captured this moment as he managed Cacao and Coffee plantations in the area. Visser's photography collection comprises around 500 images, offering a unique glimpse into the lives of the Congolese people during this time. The Vili Tribesmen in the photograph embody the strength and determination of their community. The older men, with their powerful physiques and piercing gazes, stand alongside younger boys, who eagerly learn the ways of their elders. Their faces are etched with a mix of pride and focus, reflecting their role as providers for their families and their community. The elephant tusks, displayed prominently in the photograph, were highly valued for their ivory. Ivory was a significant commodity in African trade networks, and the Vili people played a crucial role in its acquisition. The ivory trade had far-reaching consequences for the African continent, leading to both economic growth and the devastating decline of elephant populations. This photograph serves as a poignant reminder of the rich history and traditions of the Vili Tribesmen, as well as the complex and often problematic impact of global trade on local communities. The image transports us back in time, offering a glimpse into the lives of these remarkable individuals and their connection to the natural world.
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