Ansel Adams

a group of 12 photographs from Polaroid Type 55 negatives, 9 of Colossal Statue of King Menkaura (Mycerinus) and 3 of King Menkaura, the Goddess Hathor, and the Deified Hare Nome, each mounted on Hi-Art illustration board, 11 signed in ink in the margin, each with 'Polaroid Land Photograph by Ansel Adams' or Polaroid Collection stamps, with credit in ink, on the reverse, early 1960s (Polaroid Land Photography, p. 55, fig. 4-8) (12)

These prints are in generally excellent condition. The lower left corner of each mount is sequentially numbered 1-12 in an unidentified hand in pencil. The reverse of each mount is sequentially numbered 1-12 in an unidentified hand in ink. Print number 2 is not included, however, there is a print numbered 'X.' Print number 6 - This print is not signed; on the reverse of the mount, Adams has written in ink, 'Too Much Bleach For Study Only.' Print number 7 - On the reverse of the mount, Adams has written in ink, 'Slight Bleach Vavilour [illegible].' There is very minor soiling and fingerprints from handling on the mounts. The peripheries of a few mounts are darkened.
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.

Annotations on the reverse of the photographs in the present lot indicate that various prints from the same or similar negatives in the group were likely undertaken as experiments in toning and different papers.

In his capacity as a technical advisor to Polaroid, Adams would frequently provide to the company groups of photographs like those in the present lot, each print processed in a slightly different way to demonstrate the properties of certain photographic materials.  These photographs of Egyptian statuary, however, rise above the level of simple technical tests; with their skillful and subtle account of the figures' carved stone surfaces, they illustrate Adams's great capacity for finding enthusiasm for his subject matter, even if it deviated substantially from his customary oeuvre.