Curio Shop c. 1865

Felice Beato's "Curio Shop" is a captivating albumen print capturing the everyday life of a Japanese shop owner and his customer around 1865. Beato, a renowned photographer of the 19th century, is known for his documentation of Japan during the transition from feudalism to modernization. This image provides a glimpse into the intimate world of a Japanese curio shop, showcasing the diverse range of traditional objects offered for sale. The detailed depiction of the shop's interior, with its intricate arrangements of pottery, sculptures, and other artifacts, offers a fascinating insight into the aesthetics and culture of the time.