A Jewish Ophthalmologist Captivated by Edo Art: Tracing His Journey of Trusting His Own Eyes
A Jewish ophthalmologist who fled Nazi persecution in Europe and became a renowned doctor in the US was captivated by Japan and dedicated his life to collecting Edo art.Summary
A Jewish ophthalmologist who fled Nazi persecution in Europe and became a renowned doctor in the US was captivated by Japan and dedicated his life to collecting Edo art. The famous Japanese art collector, Kurt Gitter, passed away on March 25 at the age of 89. What drove him? The article explores his journey, visiting his home in New Orleans, which houses a vast collection of Japanese art and serves as a center for enlightenment activities. In March 2024, the Japan Society held an exhibition introducing his collection, and Gitter attended the reception. His wife, Alice Ellen Gitter, stated, "He loved the Japanese sense of beauty, and that sense of beauty had a great influence on his life." Gitter established a foundation in 1997 for the investigation and research of Japanese art and worked to promote cultural exchange by inviting Japanese researchers to facilities within his home. Alice, who served as an art curator, was also a comrade who operated the foundation together with her husband. The article highlights his passion for the rich colors and the beauty of black and white found in Japanese art.
(Source：朝日新聞)