Early Japanese Images

the long version

This book reproduces over 140 images taken between 1853 and 1905 by the most important local and foreign photographers then working in Japan. Almost one-fourth of the images are handcolored, superb examples of a rich art form long since vanished. Important features of Early Japanese Images include a historical overview of the years 1853-1912; the story of early Western photographers in Japan; the story of early Japanese photographers; over 100 images reproduced in original sepia tones; over 40 images reproduced as originally handcolored; and an invaluable index that for the first time identifies the photographers of over 1,200 early photographs taken in Japan.