The photo shows a woman milking a she-reindeer in a camp in the taiga. Traditionally, she is to the right of the animal. Nearby, a herd of deer is grazing among the pines.
Continuous care of deer and their milking was women’s responsibility. Creemy reindeer milk was a major food item for the Evenki.
It was added to tea, to broth, mixed with berries and wild herbs – wood garlic and ramps, used to churn butter and to make cream and yoghurt.
Abstract by M.V. Fedorova