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. Pictures From History