Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

19th Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest People
The Dogon dancers of Northern Mali

As one of the more prominent tribes in Mali, the Dogon are known for their massive masks, extravagant costumes and wild dancing. They are also fiercely territorial and very often violent when it comes to protecting their region from other tribes, mainly the Furlani with whom they have an ancient enmity. In 2021 the enmity between the two tribes reached new heights with over 600 people losing their lives in skirmishes and battles. The Dogon men and women are physically impressive and their masks give them an almost otherworldly countenance.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 04.2021
Date Uploaded: 11.2021
Photo Location: Mali
Camera: NIKON D850
Copyright: © Marios Forsos