I am now sporting henna on my hand and have been astounded at the comments, interest and compliments this traditional art has had on people I meet.
The Art and History of Henna as Bodyart
The use of Henna for body art is several centuries old at least. The people of ancient Egypt and India used this form of temporary tattoo for religious ceremonies, wedding festivals, and for simple body adornment.What is Henna?
Henna is a plant which grows in the tropical climates of Africa, northern Australia, and southern Asia. Its leaves contain a pigment called lawsone which combines with proteins to cause staining. Because of this staining quality, Henna has been used throughout the ages to dye hair and create body art designs.
Origin of Mehandi
It is thought that Mehandi originated in the deserts of India when the people living there discovered that covering their hands and feet with colored paste from the Henna plant helped them to feel cooler. It wasn't long until a creative individual began making intricate designs with the colored paste instead of just smearing it on. The complexity of designs grew and began to take on meaning. Eventually brides began to decorate their feet and hands with henna as part of their wedding rituals.
Many other Mehandi traditions developed over time. For example, women's hands were decorated with henna at childbirth because women with intricate Mehandi designs did little household labor so as not to destroy their body art. Tattooing women's hands at weddings and childbirth allowed them a few weeks where they could bond with the new husband or new baby and not be bothered with daily household chores. The tattoos were also thought to bestow blessings and good luck.
Jessica at Villa 120 - Bridal Parlor
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