Ceylon--Lawton, Joseph, W.L.H. Skeen & Co., [et al.].

Large oblong folio (343 x 475mm.), 77 albumen prints mounted on 60 sheets of card, recto only, many individually credited to W.L.H. Skeen & Co. or to Lawton, contemporary black morocco gilt, upper cover stamped in gilt 'Ceylon', gilt edges, extremities of binding scuffed

Please note that this album contains 77 prints, not 78 as stated in the printed catalogue. A variety of albumen prints, those by Skeen & Co. of a more consisitently deep tone, and better preserved, those by others in general a degree more faded. The card mounts in good condition. Photographs generally excellent, although some surface marking has inevitably occurred. Several of the images have discernible watermarks identifying the papers as Rives No. 74. Overall a magnificent example of its type.
"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."

Fine early Ceylon photographs. Subjects include landscapes, people studies, railways and architecture both ancient and new. Notable among these are a splendid series of views of architectural ruins either credited to or attributable to Skeen & Co. or Joseph Lawton, who is known to have left Ceylon in 1872.