Holy Land--American Colony, Jerusalem.

140 albumen prints (each approximately 215 x 280mm., or the reverse), most with negative number, caption and signed in the negative 'American Colony, Jerusalem', individually preserved within an archival polyester sleeve

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

A large collection of portrait studies and topographical views; the prints generally in excellent condition with good dark tones, having never been mounted. 'The American Colony was a group of fundamentalist utopian Christian pilgrims from Chicago who moved to Jerusalem in 1881... In 1898, in line with the Colony's interest in using tourism as a source of income, a photographic department was opened and their photographs were sold next door to Bonfils' shop near the Jaffa Gate ... The American Colony's extensive documentary record in the first half of the 20th century of the people and cultures in Palestine and vicinity is important and unparalleled.' (Ken Jacobson, Odalisques & Arabesques, 2007, pp.204-205)