Rare original early photograph believed to document the introduction of modern skiing to Japan during the era of Austrian Major Theodor von Lerch, circa 1911–1912.

The photograph shows Japanese military personnel and skiers gathered on a snow-covered course with flags, spectators and competitors using the distinctive single-pole skiing technique associated with the early “Lilienfeld” method taught by von Lerch to the Japanese Imperial Army.

Likely connected to the historic military ski training and demonstrations held in Takada, Niigata Prefecture, or possibly Asahikawa, Hokkaido, during the birth of organised skiing in Japan.

An historically important and scarce image relating to early Japanese military skiing and winter sports history.

Condition: Vintage original photograph with age-related wear, including some surface marks, light fading, minor scratches and edge wear.

MEASUREMENTS APPROX 10.5 X 16 CM

● Please study photographs carefully as they form part of the description. ●