Lip plate

Miro May

Miro May observes the intersections of geography and identity with a steady, respectful gaze. This portrait of a Suri woman honors the physical weight of tradition, centering on the lip plate as a profound symbol of belonging within the Ethiopian landscape.

Lip plate — framed, leaning against the wall
Miro May

Lip plate

Miro May observes the intersections of geography and identity with a steady, respectful gaze. This portrait of a Suri woman honors the physical weight of tradition, centering on the lip plate as a profound symbol of belonging within the Ethiopian landscape.

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$93.00
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Frame Colour Black
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Art Analysis

The Enduring Presence of Suri Cultural Tradition

In this portrait, Miro May captures a Suri woman whose presence is defined by the deep-rooted customs of her community in Ethiopia. The focus remains on the traditional lip plate, a hand-wrought object that serves as both a personal ornament and a collective signifier of heritage. The photograph emphasizes the tactile reality of the clay and the resilience of the wearer, situating her within a natural environment that feels inseparable from her identity.

The composition avoids spectacle, instead offering a grounded look at how cultural narratives are etched into the body. By documenting the specific textures of the skin and the singular form of the plate, May provides a window into a lineage of beauty and social standing. It is an exploration of the ways in which human beings shape themselves to reflect their history and their home.

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About the Artist

Miro May

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