M. S. Andreev in Historical Perspective: Review of Tadzhiki doliny Huf

This article sheds light on the content of “Tajiks of the Huf valley”, a two-volume book by famous Russian-Soviet ethnographer Mihail Stepanovich Andreev. The author notes that Andreev’s scientific legacy is an invaluable treasure trove for ethnography, a key to knowledge about ancient Tajik customs and a helpful tool for studying ethnographies of neighboring nations. Andreev’s work provides us with insight into the unique and previously unexplored culture of the highlanders, who have adapted their lifestyle to the harsh, but beautiful environment of the Pamirs. The book describes the methods and peculiarities of the agricultural practice, trade, hunting, fishing, mining, paper manufacturing, cuisine, and architecture of a Pamirian house. This includes the tools and utensils used, the local fashion, as well as the traditional calendar and means of tracking time. Andreev also dedicates a section of the volume to educating younger and future generations on traditional games, life on summer pastures, holidays, legends, fairy tales and other forms of material and spiritual heritage of Tajik culture. The book also contains an ethnographic and anthropological glossary, which is useful for research in the field of eastern studies in general.