William Henry Fox Talbot

a group of 4 photographs, comprising 3 salt prints from calotype negatives and one from a manuscript-page negative, on hand-coated paper, 1840s (Schaaf 377, 415, 566, and 3660) (4)

All of the prints in this lot are essentially in excellent condition. There is some variation in print quality: Stairway – tones robust. Brush-strokes evident in wide margins. Fingerprints in right margin, not affecting image. Psalm – lavender tones, very slightly mottled. Bottom edge unevenly trimmed. Johannes Jacobus Scheuchzerus – tones faded very slightly, but still retains a great deal of the engraving's original detail. Brush-strokes evident in wide margins. Painting of Carriage – tones faded, but much of the painting is still visible. Brush-strokes evident in wide margins.
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.

The four images offered here include Johannes Jacobus Scheuchzerus (Schaaf 415); Engraving of People on Great Staircase (Schaaf 566); Copy of Hebrew Version of Psalm 150 (Schaaf 3660); and a copy of a Painting at Lacock Abbey (Schaff 377), the last of which is after a small oil painting that was originally purchased in Naples, and which remains in the Abbey.