Shiba c. 1887

Editor: This is Adolfo Farsari’s photograph, "Shiba," taken sometime in the late 19th century. It’s quite calming. What do you see in this work? Curator: The bamboo speaks volumes. Representing resilience and flexibility in Japanese culture, the path symbolizes a journey. Note how the figures become smaller as they advance, almost fading into the background. Editor: Fading? Is that symbolic? Curator: Perhaps. Or it could represent the transience of life, a key concept in Buddhist thought, subtly reminding us of the ephemeral nature of existence. Editor: That gives me a lot to think about! Thanks. Curator: My pleasure. It’s fascinating how photographs can speak volumes through subtle imagery.