Altai View. Photography.

Altai, late 19th- and early 20th-century.
23х17 cm.

Light wear, with small puncture to right side, owner mark in an old orthography to back side.

It is highly probable that this unusual photograph was captured during a journey to Altai, often referred to as 'the Siberian Switzerland'. Prior to the Soviet era, Russians did not have a strong tradition of traveling extensively within the country, especially accompanied by children and photography equipment. One could infer that these tourists possessed sufficient wealth to have a photographer or a camera accompany them on their expedition. Furthermore, this isn't merely a conventional group photo; here, each participant, including women with children, finds their own spot on a rocky hill. Additionally, it's noteworthy that the two women featured in the photograph are dressed in traditional town attire adorned with intricate embroidery. Notably, they are also wearing gloves and hats.