The November 1896 issue of National Geographic magazine marked a significant moment in the realm of photography and cultural documentation. For the first time, the magazine included a photograph depicting the bare breasts of a woman, specifically an indigenous woman from the Mapuche tribe in Chile. This photograph accompanied an article that aimed to explore and explain the lives and customs of the Mapuche people. The choice to include such an image in a widely circulated magazine was notable, as it pushed against the prevailing norms of modesty and the visual portrayal of women, particularly in a publication aimed at a general readership.

The photograph served both an aesthetic and anthropological purpose. It was an attempt to present an authentic representation of a culture that was largely misunderstood or oversimplified by Western narratives. By choosing to depict a body that was considered taboo, the magazine aimed to highlight the beauty and complexity of the Mapuche society, which was often marginalized. This choice sparked debates about the ethics of representation, cultural sensitivity, and the role of Western media in portraying indigenous cultures.

Moreover, the image elicited various reactions from the public, ranging from admiration for its artistic value to criticism for perceived exploitation or sensationalism. This controversy can be seen as a precursor to ongoing discussions surrounding the representation of marginalized peoples in modern media. As society grappled with evolving views on modesty, art, and the human form, National Geographic's decision illustrated the magazine's intent to broaden perspectives through the lens of photography.