Ansel Adams

mural-sized, flush-mounted, framed, 'Property of Polaroid Corporate Archives' stamp on the reverse, 1942, probably printed in the 1950s or 1960s; accompanied by its original white wood frame designed to the photographer's specifications

The photographer to the Polaroid Corporation

Sotheby's New York, Photographs from the Polaroid Collection, 22 June 2010, Sale N08649, Lot 270

Andrea G. Stillman, Ansel Adams: 400 Photographs (Boston, 2007), cover and p. 205

Andrea G. Stillman and William A. Turnage, eds., Our National Parks (Boston, 1992), cover and p. 31

Ansel Adams (Morgan & Morgan, 1972), pl. 56

Ansel Adams and Mary Street Alinder, Ansel Adams: An Autobiography (Boston, 1985), p. 192

Peter Wright and John Armor, The Mural Project: Photographs by Ansel Adams (Santa Barbara, 1989), p. 73

James Alinder and John Szarkowski, Ansel Adams: Classic Images (Boston, 1985), p. 35

This majestic print is in generally good condition. As is typical of Adams murals that are mounted to heavy board and have been displayed unglazed in the original Adams frames, there are losses and abrasions at the edges, particularly at the top edge of this particular print. In addition, at the right edge, there is paint or gesso offsetting from the original white frame. Upon close examination, there are small areas of in-painting and retouching visible in the sky, the central portion of the print, and along the left edge of the image. This print has undergone recent (2009) conservation, and a treatment report is available upon request. On the reverse of the heavy flush-mount, there is a tideline, as well as various scratches, nicks, and nail holes at the edges. This photograph is presented here in a modern mat and frame. It is accompanied by Adams's characteristic thin white-painted wood original frame. This frame has various scratches, nicks, and nail holes at the edges.
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.