[Turkish Ladies]. Albumen print, Getty Museum. Public domain photograph.

Born in Istanbul in the late 19th century, they became prominent photographers and publishers. The brothers, Vahram, Kevork and Hovsep Abdullah, started their photography business in 1888 and quickly gained a reputation for the quality of their work. They photographed important events and people in Ottoman society, including sultans, politicians and celebrities. The Abdullah Freres also published postcards, albums and books of their photographs. Their publications were popular not only in the Ottoman Empire, but also in Europe and the United States. They were known for their beautiful and artistic depictions of Istanbul, its landmarks and its people. During World War I, the brothers were forced to close their business due to the persecution of Armenians in the Ottoman Empire. They fled to Egypt, where they continued to work as photographers until their deaths. Today, the photographs of the Abdullah Freres are considered important historical documents that provide an insight into Ottoman society and culture. Many of their works are held in museums and private collections around the world.