British sailors and marines pose around captured cannon at the Maedamura battery while one man holds a Union Jack above the group.

September 6, 1864 · Albumen silver print

British Naval Landing Party in the Maedamura Battery, Shimonoseki

Felice Beato

Why it matters

The photograph makes coercion visible after the initial treaties. Captured guns, assembled troops, and a raised flag turn control of the strait into proof of foreign military power.

Publication
Photographic record of the Shimonoseki expedition
Holding institution
J. Paul Getty Museum
Shelfmark
2007.26.96
Rights
CC0; Getty Open Content

Citation

Felice Beato. British Naval Landing Party in the Maedamura Battery, Shimonoseki. September 6, 1864. Albumen silver print. J. Paul Getty Museum, 2007.26.96.