Rare and Surprising Photographs of the True Last Samurai

An armored Samurai poses for a photograph. lifebuzz

Samurai were admired for their intricate and elaborate apparel. Their uniforms heavily influenced Japanese fashion. Universal History Archive

Samurai of the Chosyu clan, circa 1860s. Wikimedia Commons

Two geishas receive a visiting samurai, circa 1880. Hulton Archive

Three young boys dressed as Samurai, early 1900s. All That Is Interesting

Samurai pose for a picture. New York Public Library

A group of men pose together in military uniform. Hulton Collection

Samurai warrior ca. 1890. Wikimedia Commons

Samurai on horseback, late Meiji Period (1868-1912). All That Is Interesting

A Samurai warrior among the trees ca. 1901. All That Is Interesting

Three men practicing Kendo discipline, derived from the ancient tradition of the Samurai in 1890. The Sun

A rickshaw driver carries a wealthy young woman as her man-servant accompanies on foot, circa 1890. The Sun

Four warriors pictured in their traditional dress around 1900 as the ancient swordsmen were in decline. The Sun

Samurai pictured in 1865 wearing traditional Yoroi armor and showing their weapons and banners. The London Photograph Fair

A Samurai performing ritual suicide. thechive

Samurai archers perfecting their craft. thechive

A mounted archer aims from horseback. thechive

An elderly archer takes aim. thechive