Nathan Burgess

quarter-plate daguerreotype, with a modern seal, cased, the photographer's credit and '293 B.WAY' stamped on the mat, 1850s

Stanley B. Burns, Mirror Mirror: The Burns Collection Daguerreotypes (New York: The Burns Archive Press, 2012), pl. 44

This charming daguerreotype is a study in textures and patterns: the child's plaid jacket; the floral pattern of the chaise; and the tufts of fur on the dog. There is a very thin border of tarnish along the left and upper edges following contour of the oval mat. Upon close inspection, very fine pitting and tiny transparent accretions of indeterminate nature are visible overall. There are some fine vertical scratches in the lower portion of the image, as well a long scratch across the upper center area. These are generally only apparent when examining the plate at an angle and in raking light. The case is intact, but the cover is semi-detached along the spine. The bottom of the case is splitting at the right joints.
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.