FURUKAWA Shunpei

FURUKAWA Shunpei 古川 俊平 (1834-1907) Hakata, Fukuoka Pref. Son of a samurai retainer in Fukuoka. Heard about the daguerreotype from his father. In 1856, ordered by the samurai clan leader to study daguerreotype technology in Nagasaki.

Took charge of a photography research lab within the grounds of Fukuoka Castle. Went to Nagasaki again in 1858 to study wet plate technology from Julius L.C. Pompe van Meerdervoort and P. Rossier. Eventually met UENO Hikoma in Nagasaki. Opened a portrait studio in Fukuoka in 1875 and taught students who also later opened their own studios. (2000.12.15)