Captured in the heart of Xiahe County in Gansu Province, China, these portraits reflect the rich cultural diversity and traditional lifestyles of the region’s inhabitants. Xiahe, situated within the Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, is known for its vibrant mix of ethnic groups, including Tibetans, Hui, and Han Chinese. The county is renowned for the Labrang Monastery, one of the largest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries outside the Tibet Autonomous Region, which plays a significant role in the spiritual and cultural life of the community.

These images offer a glimpse into the lives of the people in this high-altitude, mountainous region. From the serene expressions of young monks to the everyday activities of local villagers, Florian Ritter’s portraits capture the essence of a community deeply rooted in its traditions amidst the breathtaking backdrop of Xiahe’s landscapes.