Jumali, Shtarkovo, Bulgaria

The transformation of the Shtarkovo Jumali between stillness and motion is truly otherworldly. It is difficult to find the words for how dynamic their suits are. I’ve never seen something so fluid as their dance, and been able to capture such diverse shapes and silhouettes with each click of the shutter. Scroll to see the movement!

These protectors of the community wear suits made from the furs of the ancient breed of Bulgarian Kalofer goat. It often takes 6 to 7 goats to create one suit. The hair must be combed strand by strand until it is silky enough to wear. It can be months of dedication.