Edward S. Curtis
(1868 - 1952)
Unpublished Variant "Dancing to Restore an Eclipsed Moon - Qa'Gyuhl", ca. 1914
silver gelatin print
Negative date: 1914
Print date: ca. 1914
Qa'Gyuhl, Northwest

After Curtis returned from the field, his staff would make silver gelatin reference prints” from the new negatives. He primarily used these prints as a simple record of the negatives. In some case however, larger silver gelatin prints were made of images Curtis thought had possibilities for further consideration. In this case, a different image of this scene was chosen for publication in The North American Indian, making this print a potential window into Curtis editing process. This is an untoned print, on single-weight, glossy surface silver gelatin paper.
10 1/2 x 14 in. (26.7 x 35.6 cm.), Frame: 16 1/8 x 20 1/8 x 3/4 in. (41 x 51.1 x 1.9 cm.)
Edward Curtis Studio, Seattle
Private Collection(s)
The Christopher G. Cardozo Collection 1999

This print is in good condition overall. There is a spot of emulsion loss at the upper left margin edge. There is scattered, minor surface scuffing, visible only in direct reflected light. There are scattered, minor handling creases throughout, primarily only visible in direct reflected light. Upon close inspection the print shows finely spaced vertical lines throughout. The lines are original to the print and were most likely a flaw in the negative. There are graphite notations and mounting tape remnants on the print verso.The condition reports for the lots offered by Santa Fe Art Auction (SFAA) are provided as a courtesy and convenience for potential buyers. The reports are not intended to nor do they substitute for physical examination by a buyer or the buyer's advisors. The condition reports are prepared by SFAA staff members who are not art conservators or restorers, nor do they possess the qualifications needed for comprehensive evaluation. Each condition report is an opinion of the staff member and should not be treated as a statement of fact. The absence of a condition report does not imply anything as to the condition of a particular lot. Buyers are reminded that the limited warranties are set forth in the Terms and Conditions of Sale and do not extend to condition. Each lot is sold as-is.