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Sharbat Gula, Afghan Girl, at Nasir Bagh refugee camp near Peshawar, Pakistan, 1984.
National Geographic.

“The green-eyed Afghan girl became a symbol in the late twentieth century of strength in the face of hardship. Her tattered robe and dirt-smudged face have summoned compassion from around the world; and her beauty has been unforgettable. The clear, strong green of her eyes encouraged a bridge between her world and the West. And likely more than any other image, hers has served as an international emblem for the difficult era and a troubled nation.” – Phaidon 55

The iconic image does not stand outside of time. Rather, it connects with the moment in a deeply profound way. Such as images are imbued with meaning, a significance that resonates deeply with a wide and diverse audience. McCurry’s photograph of the Afghan girl is one such image. For many, this beautiful girl dressed in a ragged robe became a worldwide symbol for a nation in a state of collapse.

Bannon, Anthony. (2005). Steve McCurry. New York: Phaidon Press Inc., 12.

NYC5958, MCS1985002 K035

Afghan Girl: Found
National Geographic, April 2002

Iconic Photographs

National Geographic Magazine, Along Afghanistan’s War-torn Frontier, June 1985, Vol. 167, No. 6