Hand Coloured Photos of Japan from 1886 by Adolfo Farsari, via Yellowtrace. Hand Coloured Photos of Japan from 1886 by Adolfo Farsari, via Yellowtrace. Hand Coloured Photos of Japan from 1886 by Adolfo Farsari, via Yellowtrace. Hand Coloured Photos of Japan from 1886 by Adolfo Farsari, via Yellowtrace. Hand Coloured Photos of Japan from 1886 by Adolfo Farsari, via Yellowtrace. Hand Coloured Photos of Japan from 1886 by Adolfo Farsari, via Yellowtrace. Hand Coloured Photos of Japan from 1886 by Adolfo Farsari, via Yellowtrace. Hand Coloured Photos of Japan from 1886 by Adolfo Farsari, via Yellowtrace.

 

There is something truly beautiful and mysterious about old photographs. For me, they are an endless source of inspiration and intrigue. In fact, some of you might recall this epic post where I celebrate my love of vintage photography.

Needless to say, I’ve fallen in love with these dream-like images of Japan from 1886, documented by Italian photographer Adolfo Farsari (1841-1898). Fasari’s work was highly regarded during his time, particularly for his hand-coloured portraits and landscapes like the ones I’m sharing with you today. His images have shaped foreign perceptions of the people and places of Japan, and to some degree they also influenced how Japanese saw themselves and their country.

 

Hand Coloured Photos of Japan from 1886 by Adolfo Farsari, via Yellowtrace. Hand Coloured Photos of Japan from 1886 by Adolfo Farsari, via Yellowtrace. Hand Coloured Photos of Japan from 1886 by Adolfo Farsari, via Yellowtrace. Hand Coloured Photos of Japan from 1886 by Adolfo Farsari, via Yellowtrace. Hand Coloured Photos of Japan from 1886 by Adolfo Farsari, via Yellowtrace.

 

All I can say is – thank goodness for Design Free Thursday, otherwise I’d never be able to share these random discoveries with you. That would be a damn shame if you ask me. Wouldn’t you agree?

[Images via Retronaut.]



About The Author

Founder & Editor

With a disarming blend of authority and approachability, Dana is a former refugee-turned-global design visionary. Through her multi-faceted work as a creative director, keynote speaker, editor, curator, interior designer and digital publisher, Dana empowers others to appreciate and engage with design in transformative ways, making the sometimes intimidating world of design accessible to everyone, regardless of their familiarity with the subject. Dana's been catapulted to the status of a stalwart global influencer, with recognition from industry heavyweights such as AD Germany, Vogue Living, Elle Décor Italia and Danish RUM Interiør Design, who have named as one of the Top True Global Influencers of the Design World and counted her among the most visionary female creatives on the planet. Her TEDx talk—"Design Can Change the Way You See the World"— will challenge and transform your understanding of design's omnipresent and profound influence. Through her vast experience in interiors, architecture and design, Dana challenges the prevailing rapid image culture, highlighting the importance of originality, sustainability, connecting with your values and learning to "see" design beyond the aesthetic.

4 Responses

  1. Sarah

    I love, love, love these too! They convey a sense of innocence yet I am sure there is much more to the story.

    Thanks for sharing. Design Free Thursday is my favourite day of the week.

    Reply
  2. Sheree

    Beautiful! Ialso have a collection of Japanese hand coloured prints….I’m not sure who the photographer is??

    Reply

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