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Portrait of Jigoro Kano and His Students: A Window into the Birth of Judo

Tom Hayes

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The Way of Judo: A Portrait of Jigoro Kano and His Students

by John Stevens

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2295 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	241 pages

The famous photograph of Jigoro Kano and his students, taken in 1885, is an iconic image in the history of martial arts. It captures a pivotal moment in the development of judo, as Kano's innovative martial art was beginning to take shape.

The photograph shows Kano, the founder of judo, seated in the center of a group of his students. The students are all wearing white judogi, the traditional uniform of judo, and they are arranged in a semi-circle around Kano. The photograph was taken at the Kodokan, the dojo that Kano founded in 1882, and it is now housed in the Kodokan Museum.

Historical Significance

The photograph of Jigoro Kano and his students is a valuable historical document that provides insights into the early development of judo. The photograph shows that judo was still in its early stages of development in 1885, and it gives us a glimpse of the martial art's humble beginnings.

The photograph also shows the close relationship that Kano had with his students. Kano was a charismatic and inspiring teacher, and his students were deeply devoted to him. This relationship is evident in the photograph, which shows the students looking up to Kano with respect and admiration.

The Story Behind the Photograph

The photograph of Jigoro Kano and his students was taken by a photographer named Uchida Kuichi. Uchida was a friend of Kano's, and he was often invited to the Kodokan to take photographs of the students. The photograph of Kano and his students was taken on a sunny day in the spring of 1885.

Uchida took several photographs of Kano and his students that day. However, the photograph that is now famous is the only one that shows Kano seated in the center of a group of his students. This photograph is the most iconic image of Kano and his students, and it is the one that is most often used to represent the early development of judo.

The photograph of Jigoro Kano and his students is a reminder of the important role that Kano played in the development of judo. Kano was a visionary leader who dedicated his life to the promotion of judo. His work has had a profound impact on the world, and judo is now one of the most popular martial arts in the world.