Elegant Portrait Bust of Marquis Katsura, Japan’s Prime Mini

This photograph features a notable portrait bust of Marquis Katsura, a prominent figure in Japanese history. Born in 1848, Katsura served as Prime Minister of Japan during the early 20th century, holding office multiple times between 1901 and 1913. He played a critical role in Japans modernization and its emergence as a major player on the international stage. Katsura was instrumental in shaping Japans foreign policy, particularly in relation to Western powers and its interests in Asia.

The image was taken by a Bain News Service photographer, known for capturing significant historical figures and events. Although the exact date of the photograph isnt recorded, the fact that it was created as a glass negative highlights the early photographic techniques of the time. This format was widely used in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, allowing for detailed and high-quality images. Katsuras presence in this collection underscores the significance of his contributions to Japans political landscape during a transformative period in the nations history.