MyDags.com :: Two Akasaka Koen Studio Ambrotypes

Offered for sale are two Japanese ambrotypes from the Meiji Period (early to mid-1880s) that were the taken at the same studio and have the studio stamp on the inside of the cover. The studio is identified as Akasaka Koen in Tokyo. Both cases have the maker’s mark on the inside covers and case bottoms. They came together so the men in the photographs are probably related.

The first ambrotype is of two men wearing kimonos and wooden sandals. The man standing has an umbrella and is holding some unidentified object in his other hand. He also has what appears to be a key attached near his collar. The man seated is holding a western style hat in his hands. They are next to a small, covered table with a potted plant. The photograph has excellent clarity and tonality. The image is 2.5 by 3.75 and the case is 3 by 4 inches.

The second ambrotype is of a younger and older man, probably a father and son. Both are wearing kimonos wearing wooden cog sandals. There is a potted plant on a small table next to the young man. What’s really interesting is that the young man’s position really allows for a great view of the “geta” sandals he is wearing. The son is holding an umbrella (which is barely visible) and the father has a cane. The ambro is in great condition. The image is 2.5 by 3.75 and the case is 3 by 4 inches.