View of Minatogawa (River) Kobe 19th-20th century

This hand-colored albumen print presents a view of the Minatogawa River in Kobe, Japan, immortalized by an anonymous artist. Note the parasols held by the figures, they are not merely practical objects but potent symbols. The parasol, throughout history, has shielded not only from the sun but also from the gaze of the profane. In ancient Egypt and throughout the East, it was an emblem of royalty and divinity, a canopy of protection against the vulgar world. Consider how the significance of the parasol has travelled across cultures, from its sacred use to its adoption in secular society as a symbol of status, and the ways it reappears today. Its presence here evokes a sense of guarded elegance, perhaps touching on our subconscious desire for protection and elevated status. The image’s emotional power lies in its quiet display of cultural pride. The parasol, a simple yet profound object, carries within it a lineage of cultural significance, engaging viewers on a deeply felt level.