23rd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest People
The Tribe of the Mud

A group of Chimbu tribesmen gather around a fire. The Chimbu, also known as the Simbu or Kuman people, are an Indigenous group living in the Eastern Highlands Province of Papua New Guinea. They traditionally use mud mixed with natural pigments as a form of body decoration in ceremonial events, rituals and dances, serving aesthetic and symbolic purposes.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 08.2023
Date Uploaded: 10.2025
Photo Location: Papua New Guinea
Camera: NIKON D810
Copyright: © Roberto Pazzi