Selika Lazevski

Selika Lazevski

Selika Lazevski was an écuyère who performed haute école - which means she was an equestrian who rode high school dressage in French circuses in the 19th century. Felix Nadar photographed her in 1891. Thanks to author Susanna Forrest, who shared great details on Selika Lazevski and the possible origins of her first name on her blog. from Vintage Black Glamour

... from a world, and time far from now we can't possibly 'feel'. That is a dynamic thrust into our past, our collective past. Man, many things rushed through me looking at her. She must have been an intense and incredible lover! Must have commanded respect in a way unique to the times, and certainly to these times without the social obstacles, and rules she lived within.

What did it feel like holding her?” How did she love? What drove her? How did she maintain dignity and poise against the backdrop of cultural and social prejudices, and expectations? Her personality; did it drive men away, and horrify women, colored women in particular?

I don't know. So many questions I'd ask her, or know instantly, should I fall back in time to her era. - Gregory E. Woods

“This photo speaks to the soul of every strong, proud woman of African descent. It embodies our timeless spirit, and everything we are, and can be...in one glorious portrait. I loved it when it was nameless; it stirred my curiosity to no end. I am so pleased that Selika Lazevski's name, and accomplishments weren't lost to us.” - Sarah Jackson Browne https://www.facebook.com/SarahAnnetta 7.3.12