Captivating glimpses of Imperial Russia: 23 stunning color photographs from a century ago

Despite the increased industrialization and a revolution in 1905, early 1900s Russia continued to be ruled by Tsar Nicholas II as an absolute monarchy. Despite lagging behind the West in many industries, a small group of innovative photographers in Russia managed to create the most advanced color photography technology in the world.

One such pioneer was Sergey Mikhaylovich Prokudin-Gorsky, a Russian chemist and photographer who developed a technique called digichromatography. He traveled throughout the country capturing stunning landscapes, portraits of people, and more. His photographs offer a unique glimpse into a mostly pre-industrial world.

Digichromatography involved taking three photos in quick succession, each through a red, green, and blue filter. These images were then combined to create a final colored image. The majority of the photos in this collection are credited to Prokudin-Gorsky, showcasing his remarkable skill and innovation in the field of color photography.

Based on the 23 Color Photos of Imperial Russia 100 Years Ago, these images provide a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Russia during this time period, offering a vivid and captivating look at a world that has long since passed.