Lot 47
  • 47

Anonymous American Photographer

Estimate
5,000 - 7,000 USD
bidding is closed

Description

  • Anonymous American Photographer
  • Man on His Deathbed
  • 1/6 plate daguerreotype
sixth-plate daguerreotype, cased, early 1850s

Provenance

Acquired from Ken Appollo, Rhinecliff, 1980

Literature

Stanley B. Burns, Mirror Mirror: The Burns Collection Daguerreotypes (New York: The Burns Archive Press, 2012), pl. 110

Condition

This arresting, clear portrait is rendered with sensitivity and high detail. As is visible in the catalogue illustration, there is some minor uneven tarnish following the edges of the scalloped mat. Upon close examination, the following are visible: a handful of tiny rust-colored spots with halos in the right portion of the image; extremely faint pitting, isolated to the area of the sitter's vest; and a tiny spidery accretion above the sitter's head. The plate is in a gilt-stamped leather case with floral motif and push-button closure.
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.