Description
There is very good provenance accompanying this signed photo. I have taken a photograph of the letter (Not included in the sale) that was provided with the photo which explains in detail its history. Briefly RNZAF Wing Commander R J Sinclair formed a friendship with Sakamoto & Onishi while all 3 were being trained at the UK Air Base Netheravon during 1918 & 1919. Sakamoto handsigned and dated a large photo and presented it to Sinclair as a memento. The photograph was actually taken while in the UK, see photo of the portrait studios sticker to rear. Also note to the rear Sakamoto’s home address at the time he signed the photo. Early signed photo’s of Japanese Military pilots of this era are nearly impossible to obtain. Sakamoto’s fate is unknown after he retured to Japan. The photo itself is on thick board and is reasonably large, measures 19.5cms x 14.5cms. Some stains and marks as per photo, loss to edge top right and is slightly curled.
