Walter Chappell

(Rochester: self-published, 1957, a proposed edition of 25), a book of 23 mounted photographs, with accompanying printed text by Chappell and introduction by Minor White, 1954-57, printed in 1957.  Small folio, accordion-bound Strathmore boards, covers signed, titled, and dated in ink, a 'Photography Collection of the Polaroid Corporation' label, with typed title, credit, and accession information on the front pastedown, signed and editioned '#VI' of 25 in ink on the rear pastedown, accompanied by a fragment of a cardboard box with a Wittenborn and Company, New York, mailing label addressed to Chappell, and a Polaroid Collection label on the reverse

Acquired from the photographer in January 1958 for the Library Collection

Peter C. Bunnell and Robert Creeley, Walter Chappell: Vintage Photographs, 1954 - 1978 (Roth Horowitz, 2000), p. 4

The photographs, on paper with a surface sheen, are in generally excellent condition. In raking light, tiny original retouching is visible on several. The book, constructed of cream-colored Strathmore boards, is assembled in accordion fashion and is in generally very good condition. Cream-colored cloth tape has been used to attach the boards. In some places in the book's gutter, the tape is brittle and has started to crack. It is not especially fragile, however. There is minor soiling on the cover and slight age-darkening of the tape and the edges of the boards where the tape is affixed. The extremities of the book are somewhat rubbed, and the corners are bumped. 4 pages have tiny, barely noticeable rust-colored pinpoint deposits. These are minor and do not detract.
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.

This extremely scarce book was created when Walter Chappell lived in Rochester, New York, and studied with Minor White.  It is believed that only eight copies of the projected edition of 25 exist, due to the photographer's Wingdale (Rochester) studio fire in 1961.