Like the major ceremonies of Africa, the ancient and important rituals of tribal New Guinea are fast disappearing. Nearly thirty years ago, photographer David Gillison began a long and close relationship with the Gimi people of Crater Mountain in the Highlands of Papua New Guinea, a remote and beautiful rainforest area. He recorded probably the last Hau, a two-week long fertility festival, during which the young women were married and the teenaged boys were initiated into manhood.
Sadly, these unique ritual dramas were discouraged by missionaries, and are now almost completely lost. But Gillison's fascinating photographs and intimate text bring them to life again. In addition, he offers a close look at the life of the people and the rainforests and gorgeous birds of paradise.
128 photographs and 2 maps in full color