Superb Ambrotype by Kanamaru Genzo portrait of Fujiwara Shinzo with studio stamp
Fascinating ambrotype taken by Kanamaru Genzo and dated 1871. It appears the photo is of a young man named Fujiwara Shinzo, who was from an aristocratic family considering the chrysanthemum design carpet he is sitting on. Surrounded by books, he was probably a student when the photo was taken. The name Hosaka Jizaemon is also written on the box as well as the name Saito Nobusaburo (or Shinzaburo) and the date 1887. Possibly it was owned by Hosaka at that time. According to renowned photo historian Terry Bennett, Kanamaru photographs are of 'the utmost rarity' and ambrotypes with the studio stamp even more so. The stamp shows Kanamaru's studio as being located in Onmayakashi, Asakusa, Tokyo along with the mysterious English letters 'ONE' above a sun and rays design, the meaning of which we have been unable to decipher.
Tokyo (Asakusa). Kanamaru Genzo. 1871 (Meiji 4)
Very good condition in original box. Minor wear to corners of glass. A few stray marks. Box is worn but good.
p32030522
