The Flower Men of Calcutta

Ken Hermann features a juxtaposition seen in the everyday dealings at the famed Mallick Ghat flower market, the oldest and largest of its kind in India, in the series ‘Flower Men.’ The Danish photographer captures male flower vendors posing in front of the Hooghly River donning a serious expression while draped in hibiscus garlands, crowned with mango leaves, and holding bouquets of bright flora. Flowers are used in many Indian rituals, festivals, and weddings which explains the care taken by the men in holding and wearing their livelihood. The contrast between the vivid colors of the flowers and their handler’s stoic features are quite striking.