Edward S. Curtis

platinum print, signed in ink and with the photographer's copyright blindstamp on the image, in the original quarter-sawn oak Curtis Studio frame, 1905

Laurie Lawlor, Shadow Catcher, the Life and Work of Edward S. Curtis (New York, 1994), cover and p. 89

This attractive large print of this rare portrait of Geronimo is on heavy textured paper. It is essentially in excellent condition. The print is somewhat lighter along the right edge, and there are intermittent irregularly textured areas, possibly due to previous exposure to moisture. The photograph, in its original Curtis Studio frame, is hinged to a modern mount and has been skillfully sealed by a framer with a spacer between plexiglas and board. It has not been examined out of this contained package. The original Curtis Studio frame is in excellent condition.
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.

Prints of this image are rare.  Unlike Curtis's more frequently reproduced profile portrait of Geronimo, the image offered here was not made in photogravure and was not published in The North American Indian text volumes or portfolios.

As of this writing, it is believed that only two other prints of this image have been offered at auction, in 2005 and 2006.