Edward S. Curtis

oversized platinum or warm-toned gelatin silver print, signed in ink and with the photographer's copyright blindstamp on the image, annotations in pencil on the reverse, circa 1905

Originally in the collection of Frank Donohue, Curtis's first sale representative

Sotheby's New York, 12 October 2000, Sale 7518, Lot 13

This large, commanding, early print is on textured paper that is trimmed to the image. It is in generally excellent condition. It is signed boldly by Curtis in ink in the lower right corner of the image. When viewing the print closely, there is a very small white deposit along the lower edge. A few faint dark circles are visible near the edges of the image; these correspond to several brown brown paper remnants on the reverse of the print, which suggest that this print was previously affixed to a mount. Minor soiling, faint age-darkening, and hinge remnants at the edges are on the reverse. The following notations in an unidentified hand are written in pencil: 'Chief'; 'unpublished portrait - crow warrior'; and 'Untitled Apsaroke (Crow).'
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.

Prints of this image are rare.  At the time of this writing, no other print of this image is believed to have been offered at auction.