Lot 59
  • 59

Ogawa Gesshu (1891-1967)

Estimate
3,000 - 4,000 GBP
bidding is closed

Description

  • Ogawa Gesshu
  • Modern Girl, c. 1925
Silver print on textured paper, titled and inscribed on a paper label affixed to the reverse in black ink, and there also bearing a signature seal of authentication in red ink.

Condition

A print on good quality thick bromide paper with a textured surface, the surface very lightly eroded on some few of its raised parts. These marks are only visible under large magnification. One irregular scratch (c.1cm) has broken the emulsion close to the lower edge of the print, but otherwise the surface is in remarkable condition. Japanese paper hinges affixed to reverse with adhesive, and a paper label affixed there also. Marks of an earlier mounting arrangement visible on the reverse. The upper right corner is lightly bumped over a tiny area. Colours and tones admirably preserved. Overall, a print in very fine condition.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Catalogue Note

The inscription on the reverse reads: 'Modern girl - Work by Ogawa Gesshu, printed in the 1920s approximately in the year Taisho year 14 (1925). Guarantor, Gesshu's nephew, Eitaro Tanaka.'  The seal is Mr. Tanaka's, and the inscription is probably in his hand. 
Gesshu is an important figure in the transition from pictorial to modern Japanese photography. He was included in the major touring exhibition The History of Japanese Photography, from the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, curated by Anne Wilkes Tucker in 2003.