Early Soviet Security Officers Studio Portrait, Inscribed

A large-format studio portrait of two young officers in leather jackets, military belts, and flat caps, posed against a painted studio backdrop with hands at ease and eyes forward. The leather coat was the uniform of Soviet state power in the early revolutionary period — worn by Cheka and OGPU officers as an unmistakable marker of authority. These two men wore it deliberately, then had themselves photographed and sent the print to family. The reverse carries a handwritten Russian dedication: "На долгую память дорогому дяде Саша. От племянника Давида и от Груди" — "For long remembrance to dear Uncle Sasha, from nephews David and Grudi," dated March 13.

In the early Soviet years, having a nephew in the security apparatus was something families noted. These men wanted their uncle to know exactly who they had become.

Fair to good vintage condition. Cardboard mount shows significant wear, soiling, and age. Photo intact with good tonal range. Inscription clear and legible.