Photographic collection

The visual evidence in the photographic collection spans the period from the mid-19th century, when the predecessors of photography – ambrotypes, daguerreotypes and ferrotypes – were made, to contemporary photography.

The collection includes images of daily life, photographs illustrating the history of the economy, and views of urban and rural Latvia. The collection also includes photos of significant events in Latvian history – albums documenting the Latvian Riflemen in World War I, images from the War of Independence, the Third Awakening, and Song and Dance Festivals of various eras. A significant part of the collection represents the pursuits of historically notable persons: Presidents Jānis Čakste, Gustavs Zemgals, Alberts Kviesis, Kārlis Ulmanis and other public figures. The photographs in the collection also depict the lives of Latvian people during the Soviet occupation, as well as the lives of deportees and Latvians in exile.

The collection also includes photo albums of various periods reflecting events in people’s lives and the history of families.

In order to research the museum’s collection in person, those interested are invited to fill out the contact form, indicating the topic of interest and the chronology. After receiving the form, a museum specialist will contact you.