Walter Chappell

a group of 3 unique Polaroid Type 55 prints, comprising Cut Cabbage, Forks, and Abstraction, the first signed, dated, and annotated, the others with credit and date, in pencil, on the reverse, 1962 (Heliography, p. 13, variant) (3)

These 3 Type 55 Polaroid prints are in generally excellent condition. They have glossy surfaces, and there is tiny pitting on the surface of 'Forks,' sometimes typical of the process.
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.

Walter Chappell trained as a photographer under Minor White and became part of a circle of noted artists that included White, Ansel Adams, Paul Caponigro, Imogen Cunningham, and Edward Weston.  Together with White, Chappell often contributed articles to Aperture magazine on the mystical meaning behind photographs.  Their beliefs were heavily influenced by the writings of noted spiritual philosopher G. I. Gurdjieff.

While curator of exhibitions and prints at the George Eastman House, Chappell helped establish the short-lived photographers' cooperative, Association of Heliographers Archive Gallery.  In 1963, the Heliographers, named after Niépce's 1829 sun-print invention, opened on Lexington Avenue in Manhattan, and was the only gallery at that time devoted to creative photography in America.