Amasunzu hairstyle of the Tutsi
Amasunzu is an elaborate hairstyle traditionally worn by Rwandan men and unmarried women, with the hair styled into crests, frequently described as crescent-shaped. The hairstyle indicated social status, and men who did not wear Amasunzu were looked on with suspicion until the 20th century. The style was also worn by unmarried women after the age of 18–20 years, indicating that they were of marriageable age.
1. Rwanda, photo by C. Zagourski
2. Rwanda-Urundi, before 1940
3. Rwanda
4. Watusi (Tutsi) elder, Belgian Congo, ca. 1954 by Bettmann
7. Young Mututsi (Tutsi) man, Rwanda-Urundi, ca. 1950 by Germain van den Eeckhart
8. Rwandan Tutsi woman