The tattoos on the faces of women in Chin State, Myanmar today are seen as a measure of their beauty instead of to escape slavery as before.
Mount Victoria is the highest peak of the mountains in Chin State, western Myanmar and it is also home to the Munn and Dai ethnic groups.
The women here have a common feature that they all have tattoos on their faces.
The women of the Munn ethnic group have small circular tattoos arranged like a half-moon from the cheek to the neck. Chin girls aged 12-14 are said to be old enough to get tattoos – a symbol of entering adult life.
This strange custom appeared from the 11th century, virgin women chose tattoos to change their faces, avoiding kings and slaves.
However, many young girls no longer participate in this strange custom because if they get tattooed, they will be fined a large amount of money.
The women here have a common feature that they all have tattoos on their faces.
Marco also added: “I always remember the saying: ‘When only our eyes see the soul instead of the body, beauty will be judged differently’.
It is the women here who help him change his view of beauty.
Before coming to Chin State, the Italian photographer had never met such friendly, open and generous women.
The women here often appear with traditional clothes, a pipe in hand.
