Chin San Long (Lang Jingshan) (Chinese, 1892-1995). Photograph titled "The Raft," executed in 1930, depicting a woman steering a raft through the water with a pole. 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: 12 3/4 in x width: 10 in. Matted; height: 20 in x width: 16 in. The item is in generally good condition with no visible tears, creases, or losses. The photograph is affixed the mat. When inspected under UV light, there is no visible sign of restoration. The emulsion appears to be smooth. There are a few areas with light surface stretches, visible at the critical angle. Along the left margin, there is adhesive visible. Along the upper margin of the mat. there is discoloration and foxing. The verso of the photograph could not be inspected due to the nature of how the photograph is attached to the mat.