[Japanese High Priest in Full Canonicals] 1869

Felice Beato's 1869 photograph "Japanese High Priest in Full Canonicals" depicts a high-ranking Buddhist priest in traditional attire. Beato, an Italian photographer, is known for his documentation of 19th-century Japan. The photograph, now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, showcases a detailed portrayal of Japanese religious customs and the intricate embroidery on the priest's robes. The subject stands against a plain background, allowing for a clear focus on his formal garments. The image exemplifies Beato's photographic expertise, capturing both the cultural significance and the visual beauty of his subject.