Terry A. Hewett Livres

Photography in Japan 1853-1912 is a fascinating visual record of Japanese culture during its metamorphosis from a feudal society to a modern, industrial nation at a time when the art of photography was still in its infancy. The 350 rare and antique photos in this book, most of them published here for the first time, chronicle the introduction of photography in Japan and early Japanese photography. The images are more than just a history of photography in Japan; they are vital in helping to understand the dramatic changes that occurred in Japan during the mid-nineteenth century. These rare Japanese photographs—whether sensational or everyday, intimate or panoramic—document a nation about to abandon its traditional ways and enter the modern era. Taken between 1853 and 1912 by the most important Japanese and foreign photographers working in Japan, this is the first book to document the history of early photography in Japan a comprehensive and systematic way.

Adam Dumphy's early years in San Diego, Ca, included service in the Navy of WW II and a treasure hunt in Mexico in which he learned of the Beale. Undoubtedly the most genuine treasure in history, the Beale is verified by newspaper accounts, private letters, even his name on Pawnee Rock, Kansas. It has fascinated people of every age, trade and profession. It has spawned clubs, research from every profession and even support groups for the faint hearted. In the 1819 era T.J. Beale returned from New Mexico with treasure in silver, gold and jewels. He buried it near Buford, VA and left a box with three manuscripts to tell of its presence. Linguists, cryptographers and even the Navy's famous purple box have been unable to decipher all but one. With this Dumphy was able to concoct a lighthearted quest about a treasure hunt in the 40s with people and background of San Diego. The Beale remains as ever elusive but the characters do discover why Minneapolis Is Missing'.

An interrogation of art's ability to face unpleasant truths.