Ansel Adams

mounted on Crescent board, early 1930s (Making a Photograph, p. 90; Autobiography, p. 180)

The photographer to Wynn and Edna Bullock

By descent to Barbara Bullock

Sotheby's New York, 28 April 2004, Sale 7987, Lot 81

This photograph is on double-weight paper with a semi-glossy surface. Aside from some insignificant wear on the edges, this print is in generally exellent condition. In contrast to the cooler-toned, more contrasty prints that Adams made in the 1960s, '70s, and '80s, the print offered here has slightly warm tones and a long gray scale. There are myriad, subtle variations within the gray tones of this print. In terms of tonality and print quality, this print is very similar to another print of this image offered in these rooms on 17 April 2002, which was printed no later than 1935. When viewing the print in raking light, age-appropriate silvering is visible in the dark areas, primarily at the image periphery. Very light scattered foxing is visible on the off-white-colored mount. It does not in any way affect the image.
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.

This photograph was originally given as a gift by Adams to his friends and fellow photographers Wynn and Edna Bullock.  It was subsequently given by Edna Bullock, shortly before her death in 1997, to her daughter Barbara.