Ansel Adams

mounted, signed in ink on the mount, signed, titled, dated, and inscribed in 1959 in ink on the reverse, 1941, printed no later than 1959 (400 Photographs, p. 175)

This 1950s print of one of Adams's most iconic images is in generally excellent condition. It has an 'open' tonality, especially in the sky area. Wispy clouds, obscured in other darker prints made later, are clearly visible in this print. Slight silvering is visible in raking light, primarily at the print's periphery. The following are visible upon the closest examination: a few tiny deposits of original retouching; a small surface scratch that does not break the emulsion in the upper right quadrant; and a soft crease near the upper right corner, which likely occurred prior to, or as a result of, mounting. There is miniscule edge chipping to the lower right corner. The photograph is mounted to thick, off-white board. The mount is lightly sunned at the perimeter of the image. The reverse of the mount is signed, titled, dated '10-27-59,' numbered '1-SW-31,' and inscribed indistinctly '[ ] H[ ] Olson.'
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.