Armenian women and children of the Van region in traditional dress

The photograph shows Armenian women and children of the Van region in traditional dress. The large group includes women and girls of different ages; one of the women standing in the centre holds an infant in her arms. The faces of several women are partly covered by veils, and in the front row 2 people stand with their backs to the camera, their long hair visible.

The costumes are decorated with embroidery, metal ornaments arranged on the chest, and headdresses typical of Vaspurakan. The clothing expressed not only beauty but also community belonging and family status.