A lavish, expensive ad for Dior's 'Sauvage'
fragrance has been pulled just as it was about to launch, in the
midst of accusations of cultural appropriation.
The ad stars Jonny Depp, himself a controversial choice as brand
spokesman for a product aimed at women, given the accusations of
domestic violence in his recent divorce proceedings.
Native American culture was central to the ad, which featured a
traditional war dance by a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe from
South Dakota, wearing traditional dress.
When teasers were launched online, many people criticised Dior
for the cultural appropriation. The situation was not helped by the
fact that 'sauvage' means 'savage' in French,
bringing to mind every racist Western starring the likes of John
Wayne that you care to mention.
