Japan, circa 1880
by Kusakabe Kimbei

Rejecting centuries-old strict ethics and morality of Confucian beliefs, the working class people of 18th century Japan began embracing themes of duty and feelings. As an expression of the break from these ancient traditions, ritualistic tattooing of designs based on folklore began to flourish as an art form. In this particularly exquisite example of such art, by renowned 19th century photographer Kimbei, the Goddess of Mercy (Kannon) is imposed on a background of perfectly rendered Japanese flora and fauna.