Doris Ulmann

platinum print, mounted, stamped '5785' on the reverse, overmatted, the photographer's facsimile signature on the overmat, matted, 1929-32

Collection of Allen H. Eaton

Acquired by Olive Boe Johnson from the above

Acquired by a private collector from the above, circa 1985

By descent to the present owner

This warm-toned early print is in generally excellent condition. There is a 1/8-inch scratch visible in the upper left quadrant that does not appear to affect the image. The debossed overmat with facsimile signature is a characteristic presentation for Ulmann's photographs. The overmat is slightly age-darkened. For a variant image using what may be some of the same subjects, see 'Life and Photographs,' pl. 34, there titled 'The Gang, South Carolina' and dated 1929-1932.
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.

The photograph offered here comes originally from the collection of Allen H. Eaton (1878 - 1982), a scholar and early appreciator of American folk art.  In 1937, he published what was at the time the definitive study of Appalachian folk culture, Handicrafts of the Southern Highlands, a volume profusely illustrated with Doris Ulmann photographs.  Eaton had met Ulmann through Clarence White, with whom Ulmann had studied, and her photographs of the South had deeply impressed him. After Ulmann's death, Eaton went on to serve as an officer of the Doris Ulmann Foundation.   Another photograph from Eaton's collection appears as Lot 11 in the present catalogue.