Untitled 19th-20th century

This anonymous photograph, taken sometime between the 19th and 20th centuries, offers a glimpse into the urban landscape of Japan. The image depicts a street lined with traditional Japanese architecture, showcasing a mix of wooden structures and storefronts, some with balconies, others with open-air porches. The composition creates a sense of depth and perspective, drawing the viewer's eye down the length of the street towards a distant hillside, which is barely visible through the haze. This photograph, now part of the Minneapolis Institute of Art's collection, captures a moment in time, offering a glimpse into the everyday life of a Japanese town during a period of rapid change and modernization.