Captain Alfred Buckham (1879-1956)

Silver print, signed below the image in pencil and titled below the image, possibly in another hand. Copyright asserted in pencil on the reverse.

Ferguson, Celia, A vision of flight, the aerial photographs of Alfred G. Buckham, Tempus publishing, Stroud, Glos., 2007, p.109.

The characteristic white highlighting in wax pencil is here most visible in the finials of the (smaller) twin towers of the cathedral, as well as in a selection of distant objects, just under the lowering cloud canopy. The print surface is in good condition; the mount is quite heavily foxed.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

It is known that Captain Buckham used multiple negatives to compose his pictures, and the effect is plainly visible here, where the perspective of the sky and of the ground are markedly different. The signature bears the additonal remark 'Late RAF'. Captain Buckham was demobilised in 1919 after suffering a serious injury.