Handmaid of Ishtar

Published on May 06, 2025

THEME : Hanfu clothing has historical significance as the traditional attire of the Han Chinese, symbolizing cultural heritage, social hierarchy, and ethical values over the millennia. Literally, "Hanfu" means "clothing of the Han" in Chinese.

The Han are the "historical" Chinese people. The name dates back to the Han Dynasty (206 BC to 220 AD). The Han ethnic group is the largest ethnic group in China, constituting approximately 92% of the Chinese population at the beginning of the 21st century.

Hanfu isn't just about aesthetics. Its style, colors, and design elements were often indicative of social status and rank in ancient times. It's important to understand that it wasn't a one-size-fits-all style; it could vary considerably with each emperor, with women's fashion all about pleasing the emperor!

Patron saint of sacred prostitutes, her clergy is very special. It is in fact composed of "Kurgarru" who are men who play music, dance and... crossdress themselves in her honor (Mythologically, a Kurgarru is a guardian spirit of water who has the particularity of being neither male nor female).

HAIRDRESSING: Since our theme is Middle Eastern, long, dark hair is essential for this Cosplay!

OUTFIT: My outfit was purchased at the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul; it's an oriental-themed outfit. The bra and belt are adorned with pearls, sequins, and rhinestones. They are designed to be both aesthetic and functional. A long chiffon skirt is added at the bottom of the waist.

SHOES: The dancer's outfit can be worn barefoot or with light shoes. To add a more Western, sexy touch, I opted for mid-height heels. Again, keep in mind that cosplay differs from historical (or ethnological) reenactment in that it allows you to add a touch of fantasy without it being a mistake.

WHIP :The whip in all its forms has existed since ancient history. Some walls during ancient Egypt displayed a kind of braided wire that was likely used to whip slaves.

The long leather whip like the one I have can be used for artistic tricks like breaking an object (e.g. paper, cigarette, rose, candle) with the tip of the whip, producing a sharp crack which is in reality a mini supersonic shock wave or even making the whip wrap around the body or an object then unroll it smoothly.

Although it is not as dangerous a weapon as a dagger or a revolver, the whip must still be handled with care because it can be quite painful.