Ansel Adams

from a Polaroid Type 55 negative, mounted on Crescent illustration board, signed in ink on the mount, Carmel studio stamps (BMFA 5 and 6), titled and annotated in ink, 'Polaroid Land Photograph by Ansel Adams' and printing information stamps, with annotation in ink, on the reverse, 1962, probably printed between 1962 and 1963 (Singular Images, pl. 28; Polaroid Land Photography Manual, fig. 59, p. 116, variant)

This print is in generally excellent condition. In raking light, a few surface scuffs and scratches are visible. There is a tiny chip at the bottom print edge above the signature. The mount edges are bumped and there are tack-holes in the corners. There is light fingerprint soiling on the mount from handling. On the reverse of the mount, there are the following annotations in ink: Negative No. '4-C-487'; Credit 'Pol. Corp'; 'Type 55 P/N'; and 'New Exp. Film.' There are 5 losses to the top ply of the mount board from previous tape and a small remnant of masking tape. There are a few stray ink smudges. Karen Haas's and Rebecca Senf's book, 'Ansel Adams in the Lane Collection,' publishes the most comprehensive list to date of the studio stamps and labels Adams used throughout his career. The authors' assessment of the use dates of stamps 5 and 6 on the reverse of the print's mount is 1962 to 1963.
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.