Original 19th century albumen print on card (small cabinet card size) probably Russian - this group of 4 working class / peasant class men are wearing typical felt boots of Russia, called Valenki, for hard work outside in the freezing cold. Circa 1880's /1890's, Russia.
Dates from 1880's as this was when the handkerchief pocket was first invented as can be seen on the men 's suits. The felt boots are called Valenki are still worn today. Valenki are made of wool felt and are not waterproof so are usually worn for walking on dry snow when the weather is frosty. Valenki were once the footwear of choice for many Russians, but in the second half of the 20th century they lost most of their appeal in cities, due to their association with rustic dress. Valenki became widespread only in the first half of the 19th century, when they started being manufactured by industrial methods. Before this, they were quite expensive and only wealthy people could afford to have them. Source: Wikipedia.
Size: 4979px × 6843px
Location: Russia
Photo credit: © ThislifeThen / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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