Traditional Japanese Weaving, Meiji era (1868-1913)

Making Straw Mats, Japan – Hand-Colored Photograph from the Meiji Era (19th Century)

Details:

• Museum-grade fine art reproduction of an original hand-colored photograph from the Meiji period (1868–1912), Japan

• Depicts artisans weaving straw mats using a hand loom in a traditional rural workshop

• Hand-tinted with warm, earthy pigments to bring depth and historical character to the composition

• Printed on archival-quality fine art paper for exceptional clarity and durability

• Ideal for collectors of Japanese craft heritage, textile historians, and those drawn to artisanal traditions

About the Artwork:

Step into a moment of focused craftsmanship and quiet dignity with this timeless image from Japan’s Meiji era. This hand-colored photograph captures the heart of rural industry—two weavers seated at a wooden loom, deftly threading straw fibers to create a traditional mat. Every element of the composition, from the bundles of straw at their feet to the fine tension of the loom, tells a story of precision, rhythm, and dedication.

Off to the side, an elderly figure with a book appears to observe the process, suggesting the intergenerational nature of this artisanal knowledge—skills passed down from master to apprentice, generation to generation. The rustic setting, rich in texture and shadow, underscores the humble yet vital role of craftsmanship in Japan’s cultural history.

Originally photographed in the late 19th to early 20th century, the scene has been brought vividly to life through delicate hand-coloring, enhancing the depth of woodgrain, the folds of garments, and the natural tones of the straw. This piece is not only a tribute to manual labor but a visual record of a slower, deeply rooted way of life.

Perfect for admirers of traditional Japanese arts, lovers of handmade design, and collectors seeking authenticity and cultural value, this artwork invites reflection on the beauty of heritage work.