Burnoose Collection
Amidst the vibrant blues of Chefchaouen, Morocco, a man in traditional attire, wearing a burnoose - a long
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Amidst the vibrant blues of Chefchaouen, Morocco, a man in traditional attire, wearing a burnoose - a long, flowing garment with a narrow shawl draped over the head - sits serenely on blue painted steps. This iconic image pays homage to the rich cultural heritage of North Africa, where the burnoose has been an essential part of the wardrobe for centuries. From the 1800s to the present day, the burnoose has been captured in various works of art. A man in a burnoose walks past a blue doorway, adding a pop of color to the monochromatic scene in Chefchaouen. The burnoose, also known as a burnous or bournous, has been a subject of fascination for photographers like Pierre-Louis Pierson, who captured its elegance and versatility in various settings. The burnoose has its roots in the Maghreb region of North Africa, including Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia, and is a versatile garment, worn both as a protective cloak and as a fashion statement. The narrow shawl or scarf that covers the head is called a selham or keffiyeh, and it serves both functional and decorative purposes, long and storied history, with depictions dating back to the 1800s. In the photograph "Le bournous (colorie)" from the 1860s, a man is shown wearing a brightly colored burnoose, adding a burst of color to the black and white image. The it has been featured in works of art, such as Eugene Delacroix's "Praying Arab," where the figure is depicted in a simple, white burnoose. The burnoose is not just a piece of clothing, but a symbol of North African culture and tradition, and is a reminder of the rich history and diversity of the region, and a testament to the enduring beauty and elegance of traditional garments. Whether worn as a protective cloak in the desert or as a fashion statement in the bustling markets of Morocco, the burnoose continues to captivate and inspire.