A dazzling exploration of the intersections of beauty and power around the globe told through
the lens of an iconic cosmetic 'Fascinating' Nigella Lawson 'Awe-inspiring' Funmi Fetto 'A
treat to read' Kassia St ClairA Sunday Times Style Barometer and New York Times Book Review
Editors' Choice Pick From the distant past to the present day humans have been drawn to lining
their eyes. The aesthetic trademark of figures ranging from Nefertiti to Amy Winehouse
eyeliner is one of our most enduring cosmetic tools ancient royals and Gen Z beauty
influencers alike would attest to its uniquely transformative power. It is undeniably fun - yet
it is also far from frivolous. Seen through Zahra Hankir's (kohl-lined) eyes this ubiquitous
but seldom-examined product becomes a portal to history proof both of the stunning variety
among cultures across time and space and of our shared humanity. Through intimate reporting and
conversations - with nomads in Chad geishas in Japan dancers in India drag queens in New
York and more - Eyeliner embraces the rich history and significance of its namesake
especially among communities of colour. What emerges is a delightful surprising and
unexpectedly moving journey through streets stages and bedrooms around the world and a
thought-provoking reclamation of a key piece of our collective history.
