Kusakabe Kimbei Japanese photographer Date of Birth: 27.11.1841 Country: Japan

1. Birth and Early Life
2. Apprenticeship and Studio Establishment
3. Acquisition of Notable Negatives
4. Career and Legacy

Birth and Early Life

Kimbei Kusakabe, born with a more complex surname, became known by his given name, Kimbei, to cater to his primarily European clientele who struggled to pronounce his family name.

Apprenticeship and Studio Establishment

Kusakabe worked as an assistant and colorist for renowned photographers Felice Beato and Raimund von Stillfried, gaining invaluable experience. In 1881, he opened his own studio in Yokohama's Benten-dori district, relocating to Hommachi in 1889. He later established a branch office in Tokyo's Ginza district.

Acquisition of Notable Negatives

In 1885, Kusakabe acquired the negatives of Beato, Stillfried, and Uchida Kuichi, expanding his collection further. He also purchased negatives from Ueno Hikoma, capturing scenes of Nagasaki.

Career and Legacy

Kusakabe's career as a photographer spanned from 1881 until his retirement in 1912-1913. His work played a significant role in documenting the modernization and Westernization of Japan during the Meiji era.