The world is full of cultural traditions that may seem unusual to outsiders, and few are as visually striking as the neck rings worn by the Padaung women, also known as the “Giraffe Women.” In 1935, a group of these women traveled from Myanmar (then Burma) to London, captivating crowds with their extraordinary appearance. Their visit, documented in a series of rare photographs, offers a fascinating glimpse into a centuries-old tradition and how it was received in the Western world.

A Tradition Unlike Any Other: The Padaung Women and Their Neck Rings

The Padaung, a subgroup of the Kayan people, are an ethnic minority found primarily in Myanmar and Thailand. Their most distinctive tradition is the practice of wearing brass neck rings, which creates the illusion of an elongated neck. This striking custom has fascinated anthropologists and travelers for generations.

From as early as five years old, girls begin wearing these coils, starting with a small set and gradually adding more as they grow older. By adulthood, the rings can weigh up to 20 pounds (9 kg) and push down the collarbones and rib cage, making the neck appear unnaturally long. Contrary to popular belief, the neck itself does not stretch—the rings reshape the body instead, altering the structure of the upper torso.

Video: ENGLAND: QUIRKY: Burmese ladies arrive wearing traditional tribal jewellery

The 1935 London Visit: A Spectacle in the Heart of Britain

In the 1930s, public exhibitions of people from different cultures were still common in Europe. The Padaung women were invited to London as part of a show that capitalized on their striking appearance, advertising them as the “Giraffe Women.” These women were seen walking the streets of London, dressed in their traditional attire, capturing the curiosity of passersby.

One of the most famous photos from this visit shows the Padaung women asking a London policeman for directions—an image that highlights the contrast between two vastly different cultures. Other pictures capture them playing cards, interacting with doctors examining their unique physical traits, and even celebrating a birthday with a cake, all while wearing their iconic brass coils.

Why Do the Padaung Women Wear Neck Rings?

The origins of this tradition remain debated. Over the years, various theories have been proposed:

• Protection from Slavery – Some anthropologists believe the rings were originally meant to make women less attractive to potential slave traders, deterring capture.
• Aesthetic Beauty – Others suggest that the rings are a cultural expression of beauty, exaggerating features that are considered feminine and elegant.
• Dragon Symbolism – According to Kayan folklore, the rings may be meant to resemble the coils of a dragon, a revered creature in their mythology.
• Protection from Tiger Attacks – Some believe the rings historically served a practical purpose, shielding the neck from injuries caused by wild animals.

While the true origins remain unclear, modern Kayan women who continue the tradition often cite cultural identity and pride as their primary motivation for wearing the rings.

The Western Fascination: A Case of Curiosity or Exploitation?

The London visit brought global attention to the Padaung women, but it also raised ethical concerns. Many questioned whether the exhibition of these women was an act of cultural appreciation or a form of exploitation. While they were treated with fascination and respect by the British public, their presence was undeniably used for entertainment and spectacle.

The 1930s were a time when ethnographic exhibits, also known as “human zoos,” were still in existence. People from distant lands were often displayed in fairs and circuses, drawing large crowds who were eager to witness “exotic” cultures. The Padaung women’s visit was part of this phenomenon—both a historical curiosity and a reminder of the way indigenous cultures were sometimes commercialized for Western audiences.

Breaking Tradition: The Decline of the Neck Ring Practice

In recent decades, the tradition of wearing neck rings has been fading. Many Padaung women, particularly younger generations, have chosen to abandon the practice. Education, modernization, and changing societal views have led to a decline in this centuries-old custom.

However, in Thailand, the tradition has found new life—ironically, because of tourism. Some Padaung women, particularly refugees from Myanmar, have settled in villages that attract visitors specifically interested in seeing their traditional attire. While this has provided economic benefits, it has also sparked controversy, with critics arguing that it reduces their culture to a tourist attraction.

A Lasting Legacy: The Impact of the 1935 London Visit

Video: Facts About Neck Elongation

The 1935 trip to London remains one of the most well-documented moments in Padaung history. The images of these women navigating a foreign city, engaging with Western culture while maintaining their own, continue to fascinate people today.

This visit highlights an important lesson—what seems strange to one culture may be completely normal to another. The sight of Padaung women in their brass rings may have intrigued Londoners, but to them, the sight of a British soldier in a tall bearskin hat was likely just as unusual. Culture is all about perspective.

Conclusion: A Window into a Unique Cultural Heritage

The Padaung “Giraffe Women” remain one of the most visually distinctive cultural groups in the world. Their 1935 visit to London captured a rare and fascinating moment in history, offering a glimpse into how different cultures perceive each other. While the tradition of wearing neck rings is slowly fading, its legacy remains strong, serving as a testament to the resilience of indigenous customs in an ever-changing world.

These photographs remind us that every culture has its own unique beauty and traditions. What may seem extraordinary to one group is simply a way of life to another.