Kochi Woman's Normal School
SOLD March 2013 |
Large, approximately half plate sized Japanese ambrotype showing the twenty-five students and staff of the Kochi Prefectural Woman's Normal School circa 1880. Housed in full kiriwood case with inscription in ink on reverse "Students and Staff of Kochi Prefectural Shihan School for Women." Dimensions of case 4 x 5.75 inches (11.5x15 cm).
"Shihan" means a Normal school, i.e., a school which trains future teachers. The system of Shihan schools began in 1878 and trained accepted students at no cost, also providing them with a living allowance. The schools thus served as an opportunity for talented students who lacked financial resources.
Toshiko Abe, who has provided the translation and other information, found that this particular school was opened in March 1878 and was located on the property of the prefectural office. It provided a three-year training program, with girls aged 14 -25 eligible for entry. In May 1884, the school has moved to a former police station and in April 1886, it was merged with the boys Shihan school. Based on inscription the ambrotype would date from the period of the Woman's School independent operation, 1878-1886. Very likely it was taken on-site at the school itself, as evidenced by the various buildings visible behind the sitters; although such a large group may also have led the photographer to pose them somewhere outside his own establishment.
Kochi prefecture is located in the south of Shikoku island, in a picturesque area facing the Pacific Ocean.
A few small dark specks in image. Lid of case has been replaced.
