Ansel Adams

(San Francisco: Jean Chambers Moore, 1927, a projected edition of 150), a portfolio of 18 photographs, each signed 'A. E. Adams' or 'Ansel Adams' by the photographer in pencil and with the letterpress title printed in the margin, each in letterpress wrappers, 1920s, printed in 1927; together with the printed title, colophon, dedication to Albert Bender, plate list, and a typed letter of authenticity signed by the photographer and dated October 15, 1967. Small folio, blue linen modern portfolio with flaps and leather ties, one of a projected edition of 150 of which approximately 75 sets were completed

The prints and printed matter are in generally excellent condition. The first few letterpress wrappers are slightly age-darkened. Some of the prints have silvering in the dark areas, and some have creases in the margins of the Kodak 'Opaline' paper. These do not affect the images. The replacement folio is in good condition. The spine is somewhat rubbed and worn. The portfolio is accompanied by a typed letter of authentication by Ansel Adams, on his letterhead, dated October 15, 1967, and which states: To whom it may concern: I attest that this collection of photographs: PARMELIAN PRINTS OF THE HIGH SIERRAS by Ansel Adams now in the possession of Mr. Eric Aitkin is authentic. The original case was covered with black silk, it could well have disintegrated and [been] replaced by the present one. Mr. Aitkin brought me this collection today. Eight of the prints were not signed. I signed them in my present fashon [sic] (instead of A.E. Adams I used Ansel Adams). All of the prints were made by me on Kodak 'Opaline' paper (which was discontinued with a few years after these prints were made). The typo graphic material is intact and in fine condition. Sincerely, Ansel Adams (signed) Ansel Adams (typed)
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.

The plates are as follows:

Sierra Juniper

The Abode of Snow

Monolith, The Face of Half Dome

From Glacier Point

On the Heights

A Grove of Tamarack Pine

Mount Galen Clark

Mount Clarence King

Roaring River Falls

Marion Lake

El Capitan

Banner Peak, Thousand Island Lake

Mount Brewer

Kearsarge Pinnacles

The Sentinel

Lower Paradise Valley

East Vidette

Cloud and Mountain