Anonymous American Photographer

half-plate daguerreotype, cased, circa 1850

Acquired from Joseph Buberger, New Haven, circa 1982

Stanley B. Burns, Mirror Mirror: The Burns Collection Daguerreotypes (New York: The Burns Archive Press, 2012), pl. 107

This half-plate outdoor scene is remarkable for its condition and the visual information conveyed, both in the foreground and in the background. Individual tree branches, fence posts, and windows on houses in the background are all discernible. In the foreground, details of the sitter in his sleigh are quite clear, including individual hairs on the fur draping his body. The horse remained still during exposure, with the exception of an ever-so-slight blurring of the tail. As is visible in the catalogue illustration, an uneven, thin border of tarnish follows the oval edges of the mat. It is otherwise very clean. There is some green oxidation on the mat. The cover of the case is detached.
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.