Greek gendarme (police) in their traditional uniforms, 21 of October 1913. Autochrome shot
Title: The Greek Gendarmerie of 1913: A Rare Autochrome Glimpse into History
Meta Description: Explore the iconic autochrome photograph of Greek gendarmes in their traditional uniforms from October 21, 1913. Discover the history, symbolism, and legacy of this vivid historical moment.
Introduction: A Colorful Window into Greece’s Past
On October 21, 1913, at a pivotal moment in Greece’s modern history, a group of Greek gendarmes (rural police) stood before the lens of an early color camera. Their striking traditional uniforms—adorned with pleated kilts, embroidered vests, and pom-pom shoes—were captured in an autochrome photograph, one of the world’s first commercially viable color processes. This hauntingly vivid image offers a rare glimpse into the heritage and pride of Greece’s military and cultural identity during the Balkan Wars era.
In this article, we delve into the historical significance of this photograph, the role of the Greek gendarmerie, and the enduring legacy of their iconic uniforms.
The Historical Context: Greece in 1913
The year 1913 marked a turning point for Greece. After decades of territorial expansion and conflict, the Balkan Wars (1912–1913) culminated in the Treaty of Bucharest, which granted Greece significant territories, including Crete, Macedonia, and Epirus. On October 21, 1913—the exact date of the photograph—Greek forces formally entered the contested region of Northern Epirus (modern-day southern Albania), solidifying their presence in newly liberated lands.
The gendarmerie, established in 1833 after Greece’s independence, played a crucial role in maintaining order in rural areas and newly annexed regions. Their presence symbolized both authority and national unity during this turbulent era.
The Greek Gendarmerie Uniform: A Symbol of Identity
The traditional uniform worn by Greek gendarmes in 1913 was deeply rooted in the country’s military and cultural heritage, borrowing elements from the famed Evzones (elite infantry units). Key features included:
- The Fustanella: A white pleated kilt made of 400 folds, symbolizing the 400 years of Ottoman occupation.
- The Fermeli: An embroidered woolen vest, often adorned with black or blue geometric patterns.
- Tsarouchia: Traditional leather clogs with black pom-poms, designed for mountain terrain.
- Accessories: A red cap (fesi) with a long silk tassel, a leather ammunition belt, and a Männlicher rifle.
These uniforms were not just functional but also emblematic of Greece’s resistance history and regional pride.
The Autochrome Technique: Revolutionizing Color Photography
The photograph’s rarity stems from its medium: the autochrome Lumière, patented in 1903 by the Lumière brothers. This groundbreaking process used dyed potato starch grains to create color images, resulting in ethereal, painterly hues.
- Exposure Time: Autochromes required long exposure times (several seconds to minutes), making candid shots nearly impossible. The Greek gendarmes would have posed meticulously for this portrait.
- Legacy: Few autochrome photographs of Greece exist today, making this image a priceless artifact for historians and photographers alike.
The October 21, 1913 Photograph: Analysis and Significance
The autochrome image depicts gendarmes standing in formation, their uniforms contrasting dramatically against a muted backdrop. The photograph likely served propagandistic purposes, showcasing Greek strength and legitimacy in newly acquired territories.
- Symbolism: The uniforms projected national pride, linking modern Greece to its ancient and revolutionary past.
- Archival Value: Today, the photo resides in collections like the Albert Kahn Museum (Paris), which documented global cultures in autochrome.
Preserving the Legacy
While the Greek gendarmerie’s uniform evolved after World War I (replaced by European-style attire), its traditional design lives on in the ceremonial dress of the modern Presidential Guard in Athens. Meanwhile, the autochrome photograph remains a testament to early color photography’s power to humanize history.
For historians, militaria enthusiasts, and photographers, this image bridges the gap between Greece’s storied past and its visual culture.
Conclusion: A Timeless Snapshot of Heritage
The autochrome of the Greek gendarmerie from October 21, 1913, is more than a historical artifact—it is a vibrant portal to an era of national transformation. Through their meticulously crafted uniforms and the pioneering lens of color photography, these gendarmes embody the resilience and artistry of Greece during its meteoric rise in the early 20th century.
For further reading, visit the Benaki Museum (Athens) or explore the Albert Kahn Archives, where this technicolor legacy continues to inspire.
Keywords: Greek gendarmerie 1913, autochrome photography, Greek traditional uniform, October 21 1913, Balkan Wars history, early color photography, Greek military uniforms, Evzones, Albert Kahn archives, historical Greek police.
Image Alt Text: “Greek gendarmes in traditional 1913 uniforms—fustanella kilts, embroidered vests, and red caps—pose in an early autochrome color photograph.”
By blending historical analysis with visual storytelling, this article aims to engage readers while optimizing for search visibility around Greek history, autochrome photography, and military heritage.
