The White Lady, Rock art site in Brandberg Mountain, Namibia
The White Lady is a rock painting sheltered within Maack Shelter on Brandberg Mountain and depicts human figures alongside antelope and other animals. The artwork spans several meters and uses natural pigments like white, red, and brown that were carefully applied to the stone.
The paintings were created long before European contact and belong to the period when San artists lived in this region. A German geologist brought the artworks to the world's attention in 1918, leading to their documentation and protection.
The name comes from the pale coloring of the central figure that stands out against the rock wall. The imagery reflects San hunting and ritual practices, showing how these people recorded their world and ceremonies in this sacred space.
Visiting requires a 45-minute walk through a narrow gorge with a local guide who is familiar with the route. Sturdy walking shoes and water are helpful since the path crosses rocky terrain.
The central figure carries objects resembling a bow and container, suggesting the scene depicts a ritual moment. These details show that the artists did not simply record their surroundings but also captured meaningful moments from their lives.
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