ANONYMOUS FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHER | Partially Draped Female Nude

stereoscopic daguerreotype, with hand-tinting, gilt and black passe-partout with modern seal and backing, circa 1850s

Ken Appollo, Rhinecliff, New York Be-Hold Auctions

Hans Christian Adam, Die Erotische Daguerreotypie- Eine Mediengeschichtliche Bestandsaufnahme (Prague, 1998), no. 1.6990 (this daguerreotype)

These stereoscopic daguerreotypes show a semi-undressed woman in repose. The plates are exceptional for their tasteful treatment of the subject and for the high level of detail, from the sitter's lace headpiece and double strands of pearls to the wrinkles in the fabric at her knees and on her sleeves. Flesh-toned tinting has been expertly applied to the sitter's face and exposed chest, and the plaid fabric of the woman's voluminous dress has been rendered in red. The plates are in essentially very good condition. There is a thin border of light tarnish at the lower edges. There are several tiny-to-small rust-colored deposits overall. Some tiny matte spots in the upper portion are only visible upon close examination and at an angle. Also visible when examined at an angle are two faint, rust-colored, soft lines near the left edge of the left plate. The whole was previously re-sealed and re-backed.
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.