• Facebook
  • Twitter
x

Claudio Sieber

  • About
  • Photo galleries
  • Portfolio
  • Contact
  • Prices
  • Your current shopping cart
Show Navigation
Cart Lightbox Client Area

Search Results

Refine Search
Match all words
Match any word
Prints
Personal Use
Royalty-Free
Rights-Managed
(leave unchecked to
search all images)
Next
{ 2477 images found }
twitterlinkedinfacebook

Loading ()...

  • Sri Lanka_2023-194-2.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-254.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-252.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-251.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-247.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-244.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-245.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-243.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-242.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-241.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-238.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-237.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-236.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-234.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-232.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-231.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-230.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-225.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-224.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-223.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-221.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-222.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-220.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-218.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-216.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-213.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-211.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-209.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-207.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-206.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-203.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-201.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-198.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-197.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-196.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-192.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-190.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-188.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-186.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-184.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-185.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-182.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-180.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-179.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-176.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-174.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-172.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-164.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-160.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-158.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-157.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-156.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-155.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-153.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-151.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-145.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-144.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-143.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-141.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-140.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-138.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-137.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-133.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-131.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-128.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-129.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-126.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-124.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-121.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-122.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-123.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-120.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-118.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-119.jpg
  • Yala National Park, South Sri Lanka
    Sri Lanka_2023-117.jpg
  • Lamalera's Youth<br />
<br />
In case there is some spare time, the boys will merrily paddle round on their styrofoam blocks, go surfing on their wooden boards, or they practice throwing a bamboo stick in imitation of the honorable Lamafa – the chief harpooners – they aim to become one day. Around 7 pm, most have already taken their dinner; some rice, a piece of corn and a tiny portion of whatsoever sundried sea creature. A cup of tuak (raw palm wine) or sometimes the slightly stronger Arak (distilled Tuak) will put the men to sleep – Some youngsters will stay up for a while, gathering near the only wifi spot in town to enjoy some youtube sessions. But just about one hour later, one can only hear the few squealing piglets and the waves touching continuously the seashore.
    Indonesia-Lembata-Lamalera.jpg
  • Pravi, 12 years old (Lamalera's Youth)<br />
<br />
Many children here do not want to become firefighters or racers, they dream of a glorious life as whalers.<br />
<br />
In case there is some spare time, the boys will merrily paddle round on their styrofoam blocks, go surfing on their wooden boards, or they practice throwing a bamboo stick in imitation of the honorable Lamafa – the chief harpooners – they aim to become one day. Around 7 pm, most have already taken their dinner; some rice, a piece of corn and a tiny portion of whatsoever sundried sea creature. A cup of tuak (raw palm wine) or sometimes the slightly stronger Arak (distilled Tuak) will put the men to sleep – Some youngsters will stay up for a while, gathering near the only wifi spot in town to enjoy some youtube sessions. But just about one hour later, one can only hear the few squealing piglets and the waves touching continuously the seashore. __<br />
Traditionally a young fisherman will work his way up to that very position after being water bailer or spotter. If he’s able to prove his bravery and courage to the crew, he might be elected to take the place of a Lamafa, but he would need to spear a whale at first.
    Indonesia-Lembata-Lamalera-857.jpg
  • Pravi, 12 years old (Lamalera's Youth)<br />
<br />
Many children here do not want to become firefighters or racers, they dream of a glorious life as whalers.<br />
<br />
In case there is some spare time, the boys will merrily paddle round on their styrofoam blocks, go surfing on their wooden boards, or they practice throwing a bamboo stick in imitation of the honorable Lamafa – the chief harpooners – they aim to become one day. Around 7 pm, most have already taken their dinner; some rice, a piece of corn and a tiny portion of whatsoever sundried sea creature. A cup of tuak (raw palm wine) or sometimes the slightly stronger Arak (distilled Tuak) will put the men to sleep – Some youngsters will stay up for a while, gathering near the only wifi spot in town to enjoy some youtube sessions. But just about one hour later, one can only hear the few squealing piglets and the waves touching continuously the seashore. __<br />
Traditionally a young fisherman will work his way up to that very position after being water bailer or spotter. If he’s able to prove his bravery and courage to the crew, he might be elected to take the place of a Lamafa, but he would need to spear a whale at first.
    Indonesia-Lembata-Lamalera-849.jpg
  • Pravi, 12 years old (Lamalera's Youth)<br />
<br />
Many children here do not want to become firefighters or racers, they dream of a glorious life as whalers.<br />
<br />
In case there is some spare time, the boys will merrily paddle round on their styrofoam blocks, go surfing on their wooden boards, or they practice throwing a bamboo stick in imitation of the honorable Lamafa – the chief harpooners – they aim to become one day. Around 7 pm, most have already taken their dinner; some rice, a piece of corn and a tiny portion of whatsoever sundried sea creature. A cup of tuak (raw palm wine) or sometimes the slightly stronger Arak (distilled Tuak) will put the men to sleep – Some youngsters will stay up for a while, gathering near the only wifi spot in town to enjoy some youtube sessions. But just about one hour later, one can only hear the few squealing piglets and the waves touching continuously the seashore. __<br />
Traditionally a young fisherman will work his way up to that very position after being water bailer or spotter. If he’s able to prove his bravery and courage to the crew, he might be elected to take the place of a Lamafa, but he would need to spear a whale at first.
    Indonesia-Lembata-Lamalera-856.jpg
  • Pito, 10 years old (Lamalera's Youth)<br />
<br />
Many children here do not want to become firefighters or racers, they dream of a glorious life as whalers.<br />
<br />
In case there is some spare time, the boys will merrily paddle round on their styrofoam blocks, go surfing on their wooden boards, or they practice throwing a bamboo stick in imitation of the honorable Lamafa – the chief harpooners – they aim to become one day. Around 7 pm, most have already taken their dinner; some rice, a piece of corn and a tiny portion of whatsoever sundried sea creature. A cup of tuak (raw palm wine) or sometimes the slightly stronger Arak (distilled Tuak) will put the men to sleep – Some youngsters will stay up for a while, gathering near the only wifi spot in town to enjoy some youtube sessions. But just about one hour later, one can only hear the few squealing piglets and the waves touching continuously the seashore. __<br />
Traditionally a young fisherman will work his way up to that very position after being water bailer or spotter. If he’s able to prove his bravery and courage to the crew, he might be elected to take the place of a Lamafa, but he would need to spear a whale at first.
    Indonesia-Lembata-Lamalera-846.jpg
  • Pravi, 12 years old (Lamalera's Youth)<br />
<br />
Many children here do not want to become firefighters or racers, they dream of a glorious life as whalers.<br />
<br />
In case there is some spare time, the boys will merrily paddle round on their styrofoam blocks, go surfing on their wooden boards, or they practice throwing a bamboo stick in imitation of the honorable Lamafa – the chief harpooners – they aim to become one day. Around 7 pm, most have already taken their dinner; some rice, a piece of corn and a tiny portion of whatsoever sundried sea creature. A cup of tuak (raw palm wine) or sometimes the slightly stronger Arak (distilled Tuak) will put the men to sleep – Some youngsters will stay up for a while, gathering near the only wifi spot in town to enjoy some youtube sessions. But just about one hour later, one can only hear the few squealing piglets and the waves touching continuously the seashore. __<br />
Traditionally a young fisherman will work his way up to that very position after being water bailer or spotter. If he’s able to prove his bravery and courage to the crew, he might be elected to take the place of a Lamafa, but he would need to spear a whale at first.
    Indonesia-Lembata-Lamalera-839.jpg
  • Bung, 13 years old (Lamalera's Youth)<br />
<br />
Many children here do not want to become firefighters or racers, they dream of a glorious life as whalers.<br />
<br />
In case there is some spare time, the boys will merrily paddle round on their styrofoam blocks, go surfing on their wooden boards, or they practice throwing a bamboo stick in imitation of the honorable Lamafa – the chief harpooners – they aim to become one day. Around 7 pm, most have already taken their dinner; some rice, a piece of corn and a tiny portion of whatsoever sundried sea creature. A cup of tuak (raw palm wine) or sometimes the slightly stronger Arak (distilled Tuak) will put the men to sleep – Some youngsters will stay up for a while, gathering near the only wifi spot in town to enjoy some youtube sessions. But just about one hour later, one can only hear the few squealing piglets and the waves touching continuously the seashore. __<br />
Traditionally a young fisherman will work his way up to that very position after being water bailer or spotter. If he’s able to prove his bravery and courage to the crew, he might be elected to take the place of a Lamafa, but he would need to spear a whale at first.
    Indonesia-Lembata-Lamalera-842.jpg
  • Bung, 13 years old (Lamalera's Youth)<br />
<br />
Many children here do not want to become firefighters or racers, they dream of a glorious life as whalers.<br />
<br />
In case there is some spare time, the boys will merrily paddle round on their styrofoam blocks, go surfing on their wooden boards, or they practice throwing a bamboo stick in imitation of the honorable Lamafa – the chief harpooners – they aim to become one day. Around 7 pm, most have already taken their dinner; some rice, a piece of corn and a tiny portion of whatsoever sundried sea creature. A cup of tuak (raw palm wine) or sometimes the slightly stronger Arak (distilled Tuak) will put the men to sleep – Some youngsters will stay up for a while, gathering near the only wifi spot in town to enjoy some youtube sessions. But just about one hour later, one can only hear the few squealing piglets and the waves touching continuously the seashore. __<br />
Traditionally a young fisherman will work his way up to that very position after being water bailer or spotter. If he’s able to prove his bravery and courage to the crew, he might be elected to take the place of a Lamafa, but he would need to spear a whale at first.
    Indonesia-Lembata-Lamalera-826.jpg
  • Pravi, 12 years old (Lamalera's Youth)<br />
<br />
Many children here do not want to become firefighters or racers, they dream of a glorious life as whalers.<br />
<br />
In case there is some spare time, the boys will merrily paddle round on their styrofoam blocks, go surfing on their wooden boards, or they practice throwing a bamboo stick in imitation of the honorable Lamafa – the chief harpooners – they aim to become one day. Around 7 pm, most have already taken their dinner; some rice, a piece of corn and a tiny portion of whatsoever sundried sea creature. A cup of tuak (raw palm wine) or sometimes the slightly stronger Arak (distilled Tuak) will put the men to sleep – Some youngsters will stay up for a while, gathering near the only wifi spot in town to enjoy some youtube sessions. But just about one hour later, one can only hear the few squealing piglets and the waves touching continuously the seashore. __<br />
Traditionally a young fisherman will work his way up to that very position after being water bailer or spotter. If he’s able to prove his bravery and courage to the crew, he might be elected to take the place of a Lamafa, but he would need to spear a whale at first.
    Indonesia-Lembata-Lamalera-829.jpg
  • Pravi, 12 years old (Lamalera's Youth)<br />
<br />
Many children here do not want to become firefighters or racers, they dream of a glorious life as whalers.<br />
<br />
In case there is some spare time, the boys will merrily paddle round on their styrofoam blocks, go surfing on their wooden boards, or they practice throwing a bamboo stick in imitation of the honorable Lamafa – the chief harpooners – they aim to become one day. Around 7 pm, most have already taken their dinner; some rice, a piece of corn and a tiny portion of whatsoever sundried sea creature. A cup of tuak (raw palm wine) or sometimes the slightly stronger Arak (distilled Tuak) will put the men to sleep – Some youngsters will stay up for a while, gathering near the only wifi spot in town to enjoy some youtube sessions. But just about one hour later, one can only hear the few squealing piglets and the waves touching continuously the seashore. __<br />
Traditionally a young fisherman will work his way up to that very position after being water bailer or spotter. If he’s able to prove his bravery and courage to the crew, he might be elected to take the place of a Lamafa, but he would need to spear a whale at first.
    Indonesia-Lembata-Lamalera-830.jpg
  • Pito, 10 years old (Lamalera's Youth)<br />
<br />
Many children here do not want to become firefighters or racers, they dream of a glorious life as whalers.<br />
<br />
In case there is some spare time, the boys will merrily paddle round on their styrofoam blocks, go surfing on their wooden boards, or they practice throwing a bamboo stick in imitation of the honorable Lamafa – the chief harpooners – they aim to become one day. Around 7 pm, most have already taken their dinner; some rice, a piece of corn and a tiny portion of whatsoever sundried sea creature. A cup of tuak (raw palm wine) or sometimes the slightly stronger Arak (distilled Tuak) will put the men to sleep – Some youngsters will stay up for a while, gathering near the only wifi spot in town to enjoy some youtube sessions. But just about one hour later, one can only hear the few squealing piglets and the waves touching continuously the seashore. __<br />
Traditionally a young fisherman will work his way up to that very position after being water bailer or spotter. If he’s able to prove his bravery and courage to the crew, he might be elected to take the place of a Lamafa, but he would need to spear a whale at first.
    Indonesia-Lembata-Lamalera-809.jpg
  • Pravi, 12 years old (Lamalera's Youth)<br />
<br />
Many children here do not want to become firefighters or racers, they dream of a glorious life as whalers.<br />
<br />
In case there is some spare time, the boys will merrily paddle round on their styrofoam blocks, go surfing on their wooden boards, or they practice throwing a bamboo stick in imitation of the honorable Lamafa – the chief harpooners – they aim to become one day. Around 7 pm, most have already taken their dinner; some rice, a piece of corn and a tiny portion of whatsoever sundried sea creature. A cup of tuak (raw palm wine) or sometimes the slightly stronger Arak (distilled Tuak) will put the men to sleep – Some youngsters will stay up for a while, gathering near the only wifi spot in town to enjoy some youtube sessions. But just about one hour later, one can only hear the few squealing piglets and the waves touching continuously the seashore. __<br />
Traditionally a young fisherman will work his way up to that very position after being water bailer or spotter. If he’s able to prove his bravery and courage to the crew, he might be elected to take the place of a Lamafa, but he would need to spear a whale at first.
    Indonesia-Lembata-Lamalera-815.jpg
  • Pravi, 12 years old (Lamalera's Youth)<br />
<br />
Many children here do not want to become firefighters or racers, they dream of a glorious life as whalers.<br />
<br />
In case there is some spare time, the boys will merrily paddle round on their styrofoam blocks, go surfing on their wooden boards, or they practice throwing a bamboo stick in imitation of the honorable Lamafa – the chief harpooners – they aim to become one day. Around 7 pm, most have already taken their dinner; some rice, a piece of corn and a tiny portion of whatsoever sundried sea creature. A cup of tuak (raw palm wine) or sometimes the slightly stronger Arak (distilled Tuak) will put the men to sleep – Some youngsters will stay up for a while, gathering near the only wifi spot in town to enjoy some youtube sessions. But just about one hour later, one can only hear the few squealing piglets and the waves touching continuously the seashore. __<br />
Traditionally a young fisherman will work his way up to that very position after being water bailer or spotter. If he’s able to prove his bravery and courage to the crew, he might be elected to take the place of a Lamafa, but he would need to spear a whale at first.
    Indonesia-Lembata-Lamalera-806.jpg
  • Pravi, 12 years old (Lamalera's Youth)<br />
<br />
Many children here do not want to become firefighters or racers, they dream of a glorious life as whalers.<br />
<br />
In case there is some spare time, the boys will merrily paddle round on their styrofoam blocks, go surfing on their wooden boards, or they practice throwing a bamboo stick in imitation of the honorable Lamafa – the chief harpooners – they aim to become one day. Around 7 pm, most have already taken their dinner; some rice, a piece of corn and a tiny portion of whatsoever sundried sea creature. A cup of tuak (raw palm wine) or sometimes the slightly stronger Arak (distilled Tuak) will put the men to sleep – Some youngsters will stay up for a while, gathering near the only wifi spot in town to enjoy some youtube sessions. But just about one hour later, one can only hear the few squealing piglets and the waves touching continuously the seashore. __<br />
Traditionally a young fisherman will work his way up to that very position after being water bailer or spotter. If he’s able to prove his bravery and courage to the crew, he might be elected to take the place of a Lamafa, but he would need to spear a whale at first.
    Indonesia-Lembata-Lamalera-791.jpg
  • Pravi, 12 years old (Lamalera's Youth)<br />
<br />
Many children here do not want to become firefighters or racers, they dream of a glorious life as whalers.<br />
<br />
In case there is some spare time, the boys will merrily paddle round on their styrofoam blocks, go surfing on their wooden boards, or they practice throwing a bamboo stick in imitation of the honorable Lamafa – the chief harpooners – they aim to become one day. Around 7 pm, most have already taken their dinner; some rice, a piece of corn and a tiny portion of whatsoever sundried sea creature. A cup of tuak (raw palm wine) or sometimes the slightly stronger Arak (distilled Tuak) will put the men to sleep – Some youngsters will stay up for a while, gathering near the only wifi spot in town to enjoy some youtube sessions. But just about one hour later, one can only hear the few squealing piglets and the waves touching continuously the seashore. __<br />
Traditionally a young fisherman will work his way up to that very position after being water bailer or spotter. If he’s able to prove his bravery and courage to the crew, he might be elected to take the place of a Lamafa, but he would need to spear a whale at first.
    Indonesia-Lembata-Lamalera-792.jpg
  • Pravi, 12 years old (left) Pito, 10 years old (jumping)<br />
<br />
(Lamalera's Youth)<br />
<br />
Many children here do not want to become firefighters or racers, they dream of a glorious life as whalers.<br />
<br />
In case there is some spare time, the boys will merrily paddle round on their styrofoam blocks, go surfing on their wooden boards, or they practice throwing a bamboo stick in imitation of the honorable Lamafa – the chief harpooners – they aim to become one day. Around 7 pm, most have already taken their dinner; some rice, a piece of corn and a tiny portion of whatsoever sundried sea creature. A cup of tuak (raw palm wine) or sometimes the slightly stronger Arak (distilled Tuak) will put the men to sleep – Some youngsters will stay up for a while, gathering near the only wifi spot in town to enjoy some youtube sessions. But just about one hour later, one can only hear the few squealing piglets and the waves touching continuously the seashore. __<br />
Traditionally a young fisherman will work his way up to that very position after being water bailer or spotter. If he’s able to prove his bravery and courage to the crew, he might be elected to take the place of a Lamafa, but he would need to spear a whale at first.
    Indonesia-Lembata-Lamalera-787.jpg
  • Pito, 10 years old (left), Bung, 13 years old (jumping)<br />
<br />
(Lamalera's Youth)<br />
<br />
Many children here do not want to become firefighters or racers, they dream of a glorious life as whalers.<br />
<br />
In case there is some spare time, the boys will merrily paddle round on their styrofoam blocks, go surfing on their wooden boards, or they practice throwing a bamboo stick in imitation of the honorable Lamafa – the chief harpooners – they aim to become one day. Around 7 pm, most have already taken their dinner; some rice, a piece of corn and a tiny portion of whatsoever sundried sea creature. A cup of tuak (raw palm wine) or sometimes the slightly stronger Arak (distilled Tuak) will put the men to sleep – Some youngsters will stay up for a while, gathering near the only wifi spot in town to enjoy some youtube sessions. But just about one hour later, one can only hear the few squealing piglets and the waves touching continuously the seashore. __<br />
Traditionally a young fisherman will work his way up to that very position after being water bailer or spotter. If he’s able to prove his bravery and courage to the crew, he might be elected to take the place of a Lamafa, but he would need to spear a whale at first.
    Indonesia-Lembata-Lamalera-784.jpg
  • Pito, 10 years old (left), Bung, 13 years old (jumping)<br />
<br />
(Lamalera's Youth)<br />
<br />
Many children here do not want to become firefighters or racers, they dream of a glorious life as whalers.<br />
<br />
In case there is some spare time, the boys will merrily paddle round on their styrofoam blocks, go surfing on their wooden boards, or they practice throwing a bamboo stick in imitation of the honorable Lamafa – the chief harpooners – they aim to become one day. Around 7 pm, most have already taken their dinner; some rice, a piece of corn and a tiny portion of whatsoever sundried sea creature. A cup of tuak (raw palm wine) or sometimes the slightly stronger Arak (distilled Tuak) will put the men to sleep – Some youngsters will stay up for a while, gathering near the only wifi spot in town to enjoy some youtube sessions. But just about one hour later, one can only hear the few squealing piglets and the waves touching continuously the seashore. __<br />
Traditionally a young fisherman will work his way up to that very position after being water bailer or spotter. If he’s able to prove his bravery and courage to the crew, he might be elected to take the place of a Lamafa, but he would need to spear a whale at first.
    Indonesia-Lembata-Lamalera-785.jpg
  • Lamalera's Youth<br />
<br />
In case there is some spare time, the boys will merrily paddle round on their styrofoam blocks, go surfing on their wooden boards, or they practice throwing a bamboo stick in imitation of the honorable Lamafa – the chief harpooners – they aim to become one day. Around 7 pm, most have already taken their dinner; some rice, a piece of corn and a tiny portion of whatsoever sundried sea creature. A cup of tuak (raw palm wine) or sometimes the slightly stronger Arak (distilled Tuak) will put the men to sleep – Some youngsters will stay up for a while, gathering near the only wifi spot in town to enjoy some youtube sessions. But just about one hour later, one can only hear the few squealing piglets and the waves touching continuously the seashore. __<br />
Traditionally a young fisherman will work his way up to that very position after being water bailer or spotter. If he’s able to prove his bravery and courage to the crew, he might be elected to take the place of a Lamafa, but he would need to spear a whale at first.
    Indonesia-Lembata-Lamalera-783.jpg
  • Pravi, 12 years old (Lamalera's Youth)<br />
<br />
Many children here do not want to become firefighters or racers, they dream of a glorious life as whalers.<br />
<br />
In case there is some spare time, the boys will merrily paddle round on their styrofoam blocks, go surfing on their wooden boards, or they practice throwing a bamboo stick in imitation of the honorable Lamafa – the chief harpooners – they aim to become one day. Around 7 pm, most have already taken their dinner; some rice, a piece of corn and a tiny portion of whatsoever sundried sea creature. A cup of tuak (raw palm wine) or sometimes the slightly stronger Arak (distilled Tuak) will put the men to sleep – Some youngsters will stay up for a while, gathering near the only wifi spot in town to enjoy some youtube sessions. But just about one hour later, one can only hear the few squealing piglets and the waves touching continuously the seashore. __<br />
Traditionally a young fisherman will work his way up to that very position after being water bailer or spotter. If he’s able to prove his bravery and courage to the crew, he might be elected to take the place of a Lamafa, but he would need to spear a whale at first.
    Indonesia-Lembata-Lamalera-773.jpg
  • Ignasius Blikololong (Papa Ignasius) – Ata Molan and whale song specialist<br />
<br />
With my 75 years, I have retired from being a Lamafa, but I’m very proud to have made it 50 long years at sea. 2 years ago I gave my place to my grandson (also called Ignasius) who was 40 years old at that time. I still work as an „Ata Molan“ – a Paledang builder. This precious skill  has been passed on from generation to generation within my family tree. It took me approx. one year to learn from my father how to build a seaworthy Paledang without any sketch. Ever since I have constructed 5 Lamaleran Paledangs with the assistance of my crew – It usually took us one month to finish building one. <br />
<br />
We Lamalerans have a song for every occasion, in case we successfully caught something or when we’re about to set sails fo a voyage. We may sing a special one when being in search of big mantas, another one for hunting whale sharks, and there is one especially for whales. These songs are usually taught by our fathers. I remember well, every night when I couldn’t sleep or when I was crying, my father sang these songs for me. So you’ll pick it up automatically, and there is enough time at sea to practice with your comrades.<br />
<br />
Normally, if you’d tell a woman in Lamalera; „I love you“, they ask you straight away if you are a Lamafa – if yes, they’d stay well away from you because they know there won’t be that much of sex during our Leva Season which spans over 6 months every year. We Lamafa obey strict rules, as we need to be perfectly focused. Every small distraction could have an influence on the whale hunt. Obviously, I’m a very fortunate fellow; my wife wanted to be with a Lamafa because she intended to cling on a man of dignity and courage. Thus, I consider her as a gift of God. Just after my family, my greatest gift is the respect given to me by the entire village, which I still can enjoy even I have retired.
    Indonesia-Lembata-Lamalera-753.jpg
  • Manuel Toba Bataona (Papa Manuel) – Lost at Sea<br />
<br />
With my 54 years I’m still being excited for every „Ba Leo“ there is. Fortunately, I’m able to pay off all education costs for my 6 wonderful children, 3 boys and 3 girls, by fishing and whaling. Some villagers, me included, have already learned that loans cause other problems, so we prefer staying away from the debt trap. A few bad catches, and we would fall behind on our payments and slide deeper into deficit. It puts unhealthy pressure on us while hunting. Thus we prefer to earn little, step by step, it lets us sleep better.<br />
<br />
1999 I rised from the status of a ordinary sailor to a Lamafa. One of my boys will be taking my place soon. Dodi Bataona, 26 years old, joins the conversation; „I currently study English Language in Kupang (Timor), but aim to come back to Lamalera after accomplishing my studies. I have high hopes that I can proof my bravery and talent to my father’s crew, so that I can take his position and pursue the tradition of whaling.“ – Papa Manuel chuckles; „perhaps he might just help pushing the boat to sea..”
    Indonesia-Lembata-Lamalera-760.jpg
  • Ignasius Blikololong (Papa Ignasius) – Ata Molan and whale song specialist<br />
<br />
With my 75 years, I have retired from being a Lamafa, but I’m very proud to have made it 50 long years at sea. 2 years ago I gave my place to my grandson (also called Ignasius) who was 40 years old at that time. I still work as an „Ata Molan“ – a Paledang builder. This precious skill  has been passed on from generation to generation within my family tree. It took me approx. one year to learn from my father how to build a seaworthy Paledang without any sketch. Ever since I have constructed 5 Lamaleran Paledangs with the assistance of my crew – It usually took us one month to finish building one. <br />
<br />
We Lamalerans have a song for every occasion, in case we successfully caught something or when we’re about to set sails fo a voyage. We may sing a special one when being in search of big mantas, another one for hunting whale sharks, and there is one especially for whales. These songs are usually taught by our fathers. I remember well, every night when I couldn’t sleep or when I was crying, my father sang these songs for me. So you’ll pick it up automatically, and there is enough time at sea to practice with your comrades.<br />
<br />
Normally, if you’d tell a woman in Lamalera; „I love you“, they ask you straight away if you are a Lamafa – if yes, they’d stay well away from you because they know there won’t be that much of sex during our Leva Season which spans over 6 months every year. We Lamafa obey strict rules, as we need to be perfectly focused. Every small distraction could have an influence on the whale hunt. Obviously, I’m a very fortunate fellow; my wife wanted to be with a Lamafa because she intended to cling on a man of dignity and courage. Thus, I consider her as a gift of God. Just after my family, my greatest gift is the respect given to me by the entire village, which I still can enjoy even I have retired.
    Indonesia-Lembata-Lamalera-757.jpg
  • During Leva (Ocean) Season Opening Ceremony, Maria Bataona honors holy Mother Mary. Ina Leva alias Mother Mary together with their ancestral saints will always prepare food for this village – which are the whales.<br />
<br />
The villagers are all devoted Christians and they have well established a coexistence of their original belief and Christianity – a transition which has been largely influenced by a German priest who arrived in Lamalera some 100 years ago. Even the bravest whale hunters need otherworldly (spiritual) support. During the “Ie Gerek” ceremony on the first day of „Leva Seson Opening“ the leaders of the 3 major clans will adventure to the top of the mountain, requesting the land owner’s permission to open the new Leva Season. The spiritual leader of the Lango Fugon Clan will then sacrifice a chicken near the holy whale stone to call the whale spirit. Chosen leaves of the mountain’s vegetation which bare the whale spirit will be carried down to the beach, to be drowned in the surf. <br />
<br />
Before the Catholic missionaries arrived in Lamalera, the villagers believed in Lara Wulan „the god of the sky“, Tana Ekan „the god of the earth“ and „Ina Leva“ the mother of the sea. Additionally they were worshipping their ancestors (which became saints with the rise of Christianity). These forefathers are responsible to faithfully carry the wishes to Lara Wulan. The priests made them believe that water has been created by God. This has been was accepted, as it was quite easy to replace Ina Leva by holy Mother Mary.
    Indonesia-Lembata-Lamalera-747.jpg
  • During Leva (Ocean) Season Opening Ceremony, The Bataona family honors holy Mother Mary. Ina Leva alias Mother Mary together with their ancestral saints will always prepare food for this village – which are the whales.<br />
<br />
The villagers are all devoted Christians and they have well established a coexistence of their original belief and Christianity – a transition which has been largely influenced by a German priest who arrived in Lamalera some 100 years ago. Even the bravest whale hunters need otherworldly (spiritual) support. During the “Ie Gerek” ceremony on the first day of „Leva Seson Opening“ the leaders of the 3 major clans will adventure to the top of the mountain, requesting the land owner’s permission to open the new Leva Season. The spiritual leader of the Lango Fugon Clan will then sacrifice a chicken near the holy whale stone to call the whale spirit. Chosen leaves of the mountain’s vegetation which bare the whale spirit will be carried down to the beach, to be drowned in the surf. <br />
<br />
Before the Catholic missionaries arrived in Lamalera, the villagers believed in Lara Wulan „the god of the sky“, Tana Ekan „the god of the earth“ and „Ina Leva“ the mother of the sea. Additionally they were worshipping their ancestors (which became saints with the rise of Christianity). These forefathers are responsible to faithfully carry the wishes to Lara Wulan. The priests made them believe that water has been created by God. This has been was accepted, as it was quite easy to replace Ina Leva by holy Mother Mary.
    Indonesia-Lembata-Lamalera-750.jpg
Next