Chin San Long Photograph Mountain Staircase

Chin San Long Photograph Mountain Staircase
Chin San Long (Lang Jingshan) (Chinese, 1892-1995). Photograph depicting a figure carrying a load up a curving path in the mountains. Silver gelatin print. Hand signed along the backing to the lower right of the photograph.

Chin San Long is known for his innovative art photography, particularly his signature "composite photography" technique. He was the first Chinese photographer to take artistic nude photos, and also specialized in nature photography.

Provenance: From the collection of William Atkins.

William Atkins (1919-2001) was a pilot for Northwest Airlines, who spent his career flying to Asia. He was an avid photographer who was involved in the Photographic Society of America, through which he developed relationships with photography clubs worldwide. It was through the photographic society in Taiwan that he met Chin San Long, with whom he became close friends. In the 1970s, he arranged an exhibit for Chin San Long's photography in Minnesota.
Unframed; height: 14 3/8 in x width: 10 in. Matted; height: 20 in x width: 16 in.
Condition: No visible tears, losses, or signs of restoration under UV light. The photograph is affixed to the board. The emulsion appears to be smooth and great. Along the upper margin of the photograph, there is a horizontal line area that appears to be discolored, as shown in the listing image; however, it is difficult to discern whether it is discoloration or original to the photo-developing process. To the upper right and left corner, there is a very light folded crease. To the upper part of the photograph, there are areas that appear to have surface stretches; however, given that the emulsion feels smooth, it seems reasonable to discern that it is original to the photo-developing process; please see the listing image. To the left upper margin of the mat, there are light brown accretions. Along the upper left margin of the verso of the mat, there is a minute light brown accretion; otherwise, clean verso.