Letters historic and entertaining on the past and present conditions of the Island of Cyprus written by Namindiú

In his manuscript dated 1785, the Italian traveller Mondaini (Namindiú) gives an interesting general remark on the similar appearance of Turks and Greeks in Cyprus: “The two dominant religions are the schismatic Greek and the Turkish; its citizenship is formed by the two nations; their dress has been so very mixed, by their habit and customs that the Greeks took a lot from the Turks and the Turks a lot from the Greeks.” (Severis 2007, 298-299). Namindiú refers also to the use of henna (“Kinna”, “Elkenna”, “Scienna”) as a cosmetic by both “nations”: “The Orientals are very fond of the flowers and leaves of this tree called by ancient Greeks “Cupros”. They like it first for its perfume and second for its dye used by both men and women. These leaves, grounded into powder and then mixed with clear water, form a paste which when applied on beards, or hair, give it a beautiful natural red colour.” (Severis 2007, 299-300). More revealing for the appearance of the people of the island, are four wash drawings, made by Namindiú.