Scarification—intentional cuts or burns that heal into raised patterns—has been practiced across many African cultures for centuries. These markings were never random; they acted as identity, beauty, ...

Scarification is a common practice among African tribes. It is a cultural language that tells stories of identity. Scarification marks transitions like womanhood. The cuts are symbolic and affirm ...

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Extracted from: Hemispheres: studies on cultures and societies (Warsaw) 7, 1992, pages 115-119. The Somba (Betammaribe, Tamberma) of northern Bénin still practice scarification of the face and torso, ...