Carleton E. Watkins

arch-topped mammoth-plate albumen print, mounted, signed in ink and with title, annotation, and number in pencil on the mount, 1861; accompanied by a Fraenkel Gallery, San Francisco, label (Naef 164) (2)

Grading this albumen print on a scale of one to 10 - a 10 being an albumen print that has deep brown dark tones and highlights that retain all of their original detail – this print rates an 8. A high level of detail is visible in the trees and grass in the lower portion of the image. There is some faint age-darkening, most noticeable in the sky area, that subdues the highlights somewhat. There is a small, circular loss of emulsion in the lower right quadrant. When examined in raking light, the following are visible: a thin linear scratch which does not appear to break the emulsion, and some silvering in the darkest areas of the print, mostly at the periphery. This photograph is mounted to thick yet flexible board, which has a slight wave. The mount is appropriately age-darkened at the periphery and in the area immediately surrounding the image. There is some very minor soiling and some tiny rust-colored deposits of indeterminate nature on the mount. The lower left mount corner is creased. The annotation and number in an unidentified hand in pencil on the front of the mount reads 'Sue's property' and '25.'
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.