The Qahtan Tribe’s Floral Headpiece: A 2,000-Year-Old Custom With Aesthetic And Health Benefits
In Saudi Arabia’s southern province of Asir, a unique tradition of the Flower Men has been carried on by members of the Qahtan tribe. Lebanese photographer Omar Reda set out to capture this custom that dates back over 2,000 years.
The Flower Men wear elaborate flower crowns, highly detailed and often quite heavy due to the amount of greenery they contain. The crowns are readily available and can be customized to suit the wearer’s style. Younger generations often choose colorful flowers that reflect their personalities, while the older generation has a more minimalist approach and incorporates more herbs for their medicinal properties. People wear flower crowns made of red and orange blooms for both aesthetic and health benefits, as some of these floral arrangements are believed to have properties that can prevent headaches or sinus problems.
When asked about his inspiration for the flower crown series, the photographer said in an interview with DeMilked, “Since my childhood, I have always been fascinated by tribes, unique cultures, and traditions. National Geographic, Ushua TV, and other documentary channels were major sources of inspiration for me. I had been planning to visit the Southern Region of Saudi Arabia for a while, and I was amazed by how the tradition I captured in my series is still embraced today.”
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Image source: Omar Reda
Reda has been practicing photography for two decades, beginning from the time when the development of films in the darkroom was coming to an end. Even after his university course ended, he continued his love for photography and takes inspiration from different cultures and traditions that are unique.
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Image source: Omar Reda
The photographer traveled to the region to witness the tradition himself and was able to make connections with the tribe, who are known for being closed off to outsiders. He took a series of stunning portraits that showcase the richness and diversity of Saudi Arabian culture. “I always seek projects that have unique stories, showcasing the beauty and diversity of our world or carrying a deeper meaning. Based on the concept, I plan the desired mood for my photos,” he said.
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Image source: Omar Reda
Elaborating more about his creative process, Reda said, “During my trips, I rely on natural light and occasionally use a diffuser to soften harsh sunlight. I prefer using mirrorless cameras for their portability. In post-processing, I utilize Lightroom and apply my own presets to maintain a consistent mood across the photos, even if they were taken in different locations and times. ”
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Image source: Omar Reda
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