Jerusalem Through the Eyes of Armenian Photographers: Garabed Krikorian, Johannes Krikorian, Elia Kahvedjian

Abstract

The article is dedicated to the development of the art of photography in Jerusalem, the foundation of which was laid by Armenians. The three presented photographs reflect the episodes and realities of the daily life of the inhabitants of Jerusalem in the first half of the 20th century – until the beginning of the Second World War. The authors are Garabed Krikorian, Johannes Krikorian and Elia Kahvedjian. The work of Armenian photographers is a special documentary material about Jerusalem at the end of the 19th century – the beginning of the 20th century, becoming an important contribution to the history of Jerusalem. They are the pioneers of photography in the Middle East. The Armenians of Jerusalem connect their history with the history of the Jewish people, since both peoples suffered many trials, including genocide. However, both peoples survived and continue to coexist side by side in the Old City, bringing them together and uniting them.