Alvin Langdon Coburn

gum-platinum print, 1906 (Steinorth, p. 55)

The photographer to George Eastman House, 1960s

Acquired from George Eastman House, closed-bid auction, October 1977, Lot 263

This gum-platinum print is in generally very good condition. It is on a double-weight, textured paper, with a satiny finish. This photograph exhibits a rich and wide range of tonality, from a dark blue-black in the trees, to a light yellow-green in the sky, to a creamy white in the clouds. This print appears to have been waxed or coated in some way, very possibly by Coburn. Original retouching and handwork is visible throughout the print, but is most evident in the dark areas in the lower right quadrant. In the upper portion in the clouds, the print appears somewhat lighter, possibly a result of handwork during the printing process. There are a few miniscule losses at the print's periphery. The reverse of the print is hinged along the upper edge with 3 pieces of rice paper to a modern mat. There is some light soiling on the reverse. Written on the reverse of the print in pencil are the following: 'ACC 67: 145: 104' and 'C658.'
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 gum-platinum print offered here comes originally from Alvin Langdon Coburn's archive, which was donated to the George Eastman House upon the photographer's death in 1966.  The present owner acquired this photograph in an Eastman House 'closed-bid' auction in 1977.  Taking place over a period of 20 days, the auction included deaccessioned vintage and contemporary photographs, books and periodicals, and photographic equipment.