CLARE HEDGES
Is there a universal idea of beauty?
Fig. 65.4
Using mathematics and ratios Dr Stephen R. Marquardt developed the 'beauty mask' which suggests that there are particular face shapes which are beautiful if they fit particular measurements.
Beauty is a matter of opinion and therefore the above title cannot be answered. Many believe that beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Cameron Russell gives a very refreshing talk about what it is like to be a model and the illusions that we are under in this day an age where photoshop is so prominent.
Beauty also differs depending on the country and their culture for example in areas of Burma women often wear neck rings for their entire life - this is relates to their idea of beauty and the elongated neck being a beauty ideal.
Fig. 65.5
LIP PLATES
Lip plates/plugs are a form of body modification. The Mursi, Chai and Tirma are probably the last groups in Africa amongst whom it is still the norm for women to wear them. A hole is pierced through the lip and several teeth are removed, a plug is then inserted into the lip and gradually stretched. This is similar to the western idea of ear stretching.
About 6 to 12 months before marriage, young woman have their lip pierced by her mother or another woman from their tribe, usually at around the age of 15 to 18. Women crafts their own plate and take pride in including some ornamentation. The final diameter ranges from about 8 cm to over 20 cm.
It is often claimed that the size of the lip plate relates to the woman’s bridewealth. It is also suggested that the plates are a symbol of pride and identity.
Lip plates are also worn by tribes in North American and South America.
Fig. 65.6