In the following two lots, Tokyo Comedy, 1997, by Nobuyoshi Araki is presented in colour and black and white. Printed from different negatives, these two versions demonstrate Araki’s distinct eroticism. In the chromogenic print, the intensity of the yakuza’s tattoos is accentuated, bringing the moment into a contemporary setting. In the gelatin silver print, the positioning of the fgures closer in the foreground, together with the contrast of light and shadows, add to the drama of the scene. These two versions of the same subject provide a glimpse into Araki’s artistic experimentation.
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51. Nobuyoshi Araki
b. 1940
Tokyo Comedy, 1997 Chromogenic print, printed later, fush-mounted. Image: 37.8 x 57.5 cm (14 7/8 x 22 5/8 in.) Frame: 46 x 65.2 cm (18 1/8 x 25 5/8 in.) Signed in ink on the reverse of the fush-mount. Provenance Gallery Hashimoto, Tokyo Estimate £15,000-20,000 $19,500-26,000 €16,900-22,500
05/10/18 10:30