Japan: 'Temple of Benteng (Benzaiten Temple) in the Harbour at Shimoda', Wilhelm Heine (1827-1885), colour lithograph, 1856

Benzaiten is a Japanese Buddhist goddess, who originated from the Hindu goddess Saraswati. Worship of Benzaiten arrived in Japan during the 6th through 8th centuries, mainly via the Chinese translations of the Sutra of Golden Light, which has a section devoted to her. She is also mentioned in the Lotus Sutra and often depicted holding a biwa, a traditional Japanese lute, just as Saraswati holds a veena. Benzaiten is a highly syncretic entity with both a Buddhist and a Shinto side.

William (Wilhelm) Heine was the official artist of Commodore Matthew C. Perry's 'Black Ships' expedition to Japan in 1853-54.

On returning to the United States, he produced a series of prints depicting the trip. This project employed the New York lithographic firm of Sarony, at that time probably the most skilled craftsmen in their profession in the United States.

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Supplier: CPA Media Co. Ltd.

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Pictures From History