An Armenian man from Sasun

The photograph shows an Armenian man from Sasun, from the Lake Van region, at the turn of the 20th century. He is bearded, his head is wrapped in a cloth, fur lies across his shoulders, and he wears a jacket, a belt and wide striped trousers. In his right hand, at his waist, he holds a weapon, and with his left he grips a thin birch trunk. The photograph was taken in a studio, in front of a painted forest backdrop, among stones and branches.

His clothing, weapon and bearing convey the freedom-loving spirit of the highlands and a readiness for self-defence. The figure symbolises the strength and dignity of the Armenians of Sasun and their history of struggle for survival.