Photographs, album

Oblong 4to (206 x 275mm.), 75 photographs (120 x 165mm., or the reverse), mostly matt platinotypes, corner mounted on card, recto and verso, glassine guards, beige cloth, black morocco label on upper cover 'Chine 1900-1905', modern chemise and slipcase, occasional spotting, stains or minor creases

Western Travellers in China 98

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

"This album contains early photographs of famous monuments and Chinese sites: the Great Wall, the gigantic stone figures scattered along the avenue to the Ming Tombs (Nanking) and various triumphal arches, temples and gods. Some of them show rural scenes" (Western Travellers in China). In addition to the famous sites, there are uncommon images of ordinary Chinese men, women and children, street scenes, traders, craftsmen (blacksmith, shoe maker etc.), and modes of animal transport.