Carleton E. Watkins

mammoth-plate arch-topped albumen print, mounted, signed in ink and titled and numbered '40-.' in pencil on the mount, framed, 1861

Fraenkel Gallery, San Francisco

Private Collection, 1989

Private Collection, circa 2009

San Francisco, Fraenkel Gallery, Carleton Watkins: Photographs 1861 - 1874, May - August 1989

Peter Palmquist and Jeffrey Fraenkel, Carleton Watkins: Photographs 1861 - 1874 (San Francisco, 1989), pl. 45, this print

This masterfully-rendered print is in essentially excellent condition. Grading this albumen print on a scale of one to 10 – 10 being a print that has rich deep dark tones and highlights that retain all of their original detail – this print rates a strong 10. When examined in high raking light, a one-inch diagonal scuff that does not break the emulsion can be seen in the upper right quadrant. Upon close examination, the following are also visible: 2 small matte-deposits, possibly original retouching that has yellowed, in the lower left quadrant; and a one-and-1/2-inch area in the lower right corner, where the print is separating from its mount very slightly. The mount is lightly age-darkened and a little worn at the edges and corners. 'CEW.421.Z' and 'CEW.211.X' (crossed out) are written in an unidentified hand in pencil on the mount. The reverse of the mount is darkened overall.
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.