Picturing the Ottoman Armenian World: Photography in Erzerum, Harput, Van and Beyond

Photography in the Ottoman East was rooted in different concerns, with studios in Erzurum, Harput, and Van being the most important. This book examines photographic activity in these three sites, arguing that local practices were marked by educational endeavors, mass migration, and revolutionary politics. It suggests that by contemplating the ways in which photographs were made, used, circulated, and seen, we can form a picture of the Ottoman Armenian world.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 268 pages
Publication date: 25 January 2024
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The Armenian contribution to Ottoman photography is a subject that has received significant attention in historical accounts, highlighting the renowned Ottoman Armenian-run studios in the imperial capital that produced captivating Orientalist visions for tourists and images of modernity for the domestic elite. However, the practitioners of the eastern provinces, where the majority of Ottoman Armenians resided, have been largely overlooked, leading to a distortion of their role in the medium and a broader understanding of Armenian history and experience.

Photography in the Ottoman East was characterized by distinct concerns that stemmed from the profound social, political, and cultural transformations that reshaped the region and the lives of Armenian communities during the empire's final decades. This book represents the first comprehensive study of photographic activity in three key sites on the Armenian plateau: Erzurum, Harput, and Van. By examining the dominant activities and movements of these places, the book sheds light on the local photographic practices that were intertwined with educational endeavors, mass migration, and revolutionary politics.

The camera played a pivotal role in responding to and becoming an instrument of these phenomena. Through a meticulous analysis of photographs, the book offers a fresh perspective on previously unknown practitioners and provides valuable insights into the communities they served. By delving into the ways in which photographs were made, used, circulated, and perceived, the book aims to paint a comprehensive picture of the Ottoman Armenian world.

This study emphasizes the importance of recognizing and valuing the contributions of all individuals and communities to the rich tapestry of photographic history. By exploring the lesser-known aspects of photographic practice in the Ottoman East, this book contributes to a more nuanced and inclusive understanding of the complex and multifaceted history of the region.

Weight: 416g
Dimension: 154 x 234 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780755600380