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c. 1880s Japan - young women sleeping under eiderdown
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c. 1880s Japan - young women sleeping under eiderdown
c.1880s Japan - young women sleeping under eiderdown
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23450836
© Mary Evans / Pump Park Photography
Eiderdown Ethnicity Ethnographic Geisha Meiji Orient Portrtait Sleeping Tinted Albumen
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph, taken in the late 1880s in Japan, captures a moment of quiet repose as young women rest beneath an eiderdown quilt. The image is a testament to the rich cultural traditions of Japan during the Meiji Era (1868-1912), a period of significant transformation and modernization. The women, dressed in traditional Japanese garments, are shown sleeping on tatami mats in a dimly lit room. The eiderdown quilt, a prized possession, is carefully draped over them, providing both warmth and a sense of comfort. The quilt, made from the down feathers of Eider ducks, was a luxury item that was highly valued in Japan for its insulating properties and elegant appearance. The photograph is an ethnographic record of a bygone era, offering a glimpse into the daily life and customs of the Japanese people during this time. The use of an albumen print process, a popular photographic technique of the 19th century, adds to the vintage aesthetic of the image. The tinted colors, likely added in the darkroom, further enhance the nostalgic feel. The presence of the young women in this photograph also raises questions about their identities and roles in society. While some may have been geisha, professional entertainers known for their artistic and cultural expertise, others could have been members of the imperial or native elite, or even commoners. Regardless, their shared experience of rest beneath the eiderdown quilt speaks to the universal human desire for comfort and relaxation. This photograph is a valuable historical artifact, offering insights into the ethnic and cultural diversity of Japan during the late 19th century. It is a reminder of the importance of preserving and celebrating the rich heritage of the past, while also acknowledging the ongoing evolution of our world.
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