Looking for Japan: Early Japanese Photography

September 5–November 29, 2026, Gallery 117
2026 FotoFocus Biennial exhibition

The Meiji period (1868–1912) encompassed great change, as traditional institutions gave way to political and social upheavals, along with the Westernization of aspects of Japanese culture. The photographs in this exhibition highlight such changes, from personal and private images to those made for a newly established tourist trade.

Early photography can foreground discussions regarding beliefs, traditions and practices within Japan as well as the ways in which they may have been packaged for, and influenced by, Western audiences. Objects on view will range from single photographs and postcards to albums, from albumen travel photographs to hanging scroll collotypes. The exhibition spotlights hand-colored prints depicting scenes of landscapes, cities and portraits, including historical Japanese architecture, hairstyles, clothing, weapons and even tattoos.

The highly personal, sometimes provocative images, are a focal point to consider history, culture and societal change. While more than a century ago, these themes are current and resonant and make for an especially timely reflection for visitors.

Plan your visit to see these and other incredible works!

Support for this 2026 FotoFocus Biennial exhibition was provided in part by FotoFocus.

Featured Image: Ogawa Kazumasa (Japanese, 1860–1929), Chrysanthemum (detail) 1896, from the album Some Japanese Flowers, collotype. Transfer from Library to Museum Collection, 2022.41

Artist unknown (Japan), Sorihashi Bridge, Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, Osaka, about 1875, hand-tinted albumen print.  Gift of Edith and Alexander Kaye and partial museum purchase, 2001.18.51