This impressive, highly detailed whole plate, is very crisp and highly detailed. Most of the sitters' cheeks are blush-tinted. There is a very thin, unobtrusive band of tarnish following the left and right edges of the mat. Upon close inspection, a few scattered tiny white spots are visible. There is a hazy film on the underside of the glass that is visible in raking light. There are some isolated, small scratches to the glass that are barely visible and mostly confined to near the edges. There are scattered spots of green tarnish on the mat. The following is written in an unidentified hand in pencil inside the rear cover of the case: 'James B. Richardson & Family / Fanny on left, Summer Street, Boston, Mass. / About 1850.' The case is intact but worn overall, especially near the hooks where there are some losses to the leather.
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.