Beautifying the Body in Ancient Africa and Today

£12.99

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New Legacy Edition. Dispatch date: 30th of March 2026.

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Product Description

Description

From the sacred rituals of ancient Nubia to contemporary beauty culture across the diaspora, body adornment has always held profound meaning in African societies. In this richly researched and accessible study, Christelle Kedi traces the spiritual, cultural and aesthetic significance of Afro hair, skin care, body modification, textiles and colour. Linking past traditions to present practice, she explores how adornment expresses identity, dignity and heritage across Africa, the Caribbean, Europe and the United States. Both historical and practical, this book speaks to scholars and modern readers alike—offering insight, clarity and inspiration for understanding beauty through an African lens.

Additional information

Dimensions

6.14" x 9.21"

Format

Imprint

Language

Publisher

Books2Africa Press

Year of Publication

2026

Christelle Kedi is an international make-up artist and fashion stylist. She is Director of the African fashion and Arts Centre in London and was recently awarded the title of “Make-up Artist of the Year 2012” in the Women 4 Africa awards. She has written articles in many journals and been commissioned for London Fashion Week, the Afro Hair Show and the Numbi Festival. She aims to help beauty and fashion professionals to understand African aesthetics and she strongly defends “Afro” solutions to beauty issues.

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