Kuni Ori – Collector's Edition

Photography by Henk Bothof
"Kuni Ori" – Where Do You Come From?

A Rare Photographic Tribute to Suri Culture

For more than twenty years, Dutch photographer Henk Bothof has traveled to southern Ethiopia to document the lives of the Suri people. What began as fascination evolved into a profound relationship built on trust and mutual respect. Over time, Bothof became an insider, gaining access to aspects of Suri life that remain hidden from most outsiders, including ceremonies and rituals rarely witnessed by the outside world.

In Kuni Ori, Bothof presents an extraordinary visual record of this remarkable culture. From iconic lip plates, intricate body painting, scarification, and ceremonial stick fighting to the drinking of cattle blood and sacred rituals such as naming ceremonies and the elusive Gerari ceremony, every photograph reflects intimacy, authenticity, and deep cultural understanding.

The approximately 80 striking photographs featured in this monumental coffee table book are far more than documentary images. They are a visual celebration of beauty, identity, heritage, and tradition. Simultaneously raw and elegant, restrained and expressive, these timeless photographs capture a way of life facing increasing pressure from modernization, government intervention, and tourism.

Yet above all, the images reveal the resilience, dignity, and pride of the Suri people, who continue to preserve their centuries-old traditions despite a rapidly changing world.

As Suri elder and friend Barkede explains:

"I am happy and proud that Henk shows the beauty of Suri culture in this book. It means a great deal to us."

Collector's Edition – Limited to Only 75 Copies Worldwide

The exclusive Collector's Edition of Kuni Ori is strictly limited to just 75 copies worldwide, making it a true collector's piece for photography enthusiasts, cultural institutions, museums, and art collectors.

Each edition is presented in a luxurious linen presentation box and includes:

• The monumental hardcover book featuring Swiss binding and colored page edges

• Three exclusive photographic prints, individually numbered and hand-signed by Henk Bothof

• An original hand-fired ceramic lip plate, inspired by those traditionally worn by Suri women

This exceptional edition is far more than a book. It is a museum-worthy art object and a tangible record of a culture in transition.

About the Author – Henk Bothof

Henk Bothof is an acclaimed Dutch photographer renowned for his long-term documentary projects exploring humanity, culture, and identity. His work is distinguished by intimacy, respect, and an exceptional eye for form, color, and composition.

By patiently building trust within communities over many years, Bothof creates photographs that are rare, honest, and deeply personal. With Kuni Ori, he delivers a powerful and enduring visual legacy of Suri culture, seen through the eyes of someone who was welcomed not as an observer, but as a friend.

Limited to 75 Collector's Editions worldwide.
A rare opportunity to own an extraordinary photographic and cultural masterpiece.

Format 33 × 48.5 cm
Pages 192
Binding Hardcover / Swiss Binding / Colored Page Edges
Language English and Suri

Includes

• Presented in a luxurious linen presentation box

• Three hand-signed and numbered photographic prints

• An original hand-crafted ceramic lip plat

Limited Edition 75 copies worldwide
Author Henk Bothof
Foreword Vincent Mentzel
Design Design by Toko