Gambier Bolton

mural-sized carbon print, titled and credited 'Gambier Bolton F. R. G. S.' in the negative, mounted to linen, in an old, possibly original, frame, circa 1891

This commanding early carbon print has deep reddish-brown tones and warm, creamy highlights. An exceptional level of detail is visible, from the texture of the tiger's striped coat to his fine whispers and animated facial features. Due to its size, this print has not been examined out of the frame. Very close examination reveals the following: general surface craquelure, most notably in the lower central portion of the image; several surface scratches and scuffs overall; and possible staining along the lower right edge. These are not immediately apparent and do not detract in a meaningful way from this impressive early print. The carved and gilded wood frame exhibits wear consistent with its age.
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 widely exhibited and published British photographer Gambier Bolton traveled throughout Africa, India, Japan, Indonesia, and North America to photograph animals in both zoological settings and the wild.  His images fascinated the public, and he gave frequent lantern-slide lectures on natural history.  Bolton's photographs were published in numerous books and magazines during his lifetime, among them The Picture Magazine, The Animals of the Bible (1901), A Book of Beasts and Birds (1903), and The Animal Picture Book (1905).  He was a frequent contributor to The Idler, a popular monthly magazine, and several of his large cat studies illustrated the articles ‘My Lord Stripes’ and ‘The Cat Majestic’ (1899).

Prints of A Captive Unconquered were exhibited at the Photographic Society of Great Britain in 1891, and in the British Section at The Chicago World’s Fair in 1893. 

Bolton was a 'fellow' of many organizations, among them the Royal Geographical Society (as evidenced by the initials on the photograph offered here), the Zoological Society, and the Royal Photographic Society.  Bolton's ability to capture the savage dignity of his captive subjects was noted by natural history author C. J. Cornish, who wrote, 'To watch Mr. Gambier Bolton is to learn how to see the Zoo from another point of view than is common to ordinary or even scientific visitors.  He is concerned not with habits, but with the form, appearance, and attitudes of animals' ('How to See The Zoo,' The Cornhill Magazine, 1896).