Timothy O'Sullivan

albumen print, numbered ‘12’ in the negative, on the two-toned Wheeler Survey mount, the photographer’s credit, title, ‘No. 4,’ and survey information in letterpress on the mount, 1871 (Dover, pl. 12)

Judging this albumen print on a scale of 1 to 10 – a 10 being an albumen print that has deep near-black dark tones and highlights that retain all of their original detail – this print rates a 7 or 8. The print is a somewhat light overall. But its tonality is consistent, and there is no edge fading. There is also no loss of detail in the print, and the textures of the various plant life visible in the picture is very clearly presented. It is likely that the lightness of the print is due to the way it was printed – it does not appear to have faded to its present state. The photograph is in essentially excellent condition. When examined closely in high raking light, a series of very faint scuffs are just visible at the top of the image. There is some very slight separation of the print from the mount along the left edge. The mount is age-darkened and shows minor wear on its edges and corners.
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.