01-27-201701-28-2017
Skinner Auctions
Skinner AuctionsBoston MA
2977BBoston
January 27, 2017 12:00 PMCalender
162

Alfred Stieglitz (American, 1864-1946) The Two Poplars, Lake George

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Auction: American & European Works of Art - 2977BLocation: BostonDate / Time: January 27, 2017 12:00PM

Description:

Alfred Stieglitz (American, 1864-1946)

The Two Poplars, Lake George, with The Dying Chestnut Tree mounted on the reverse, 1934. Unsigned. Gelatin silver prints, image/sheet sizes to 8 7/8 x 6 in. (22.5 x 15.3 cm),matted, unframed.
Condition: Poplars has two subtle chemical stains in u.l. quadrant, minor abrasion or similar l.l., Chestnut with minor silvering.

Provenance: Gift of Carl Zigrosser to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, 1975; sold with the approval of the Trustees of the Philadelphia Museum of Art to benefit acquisition funds.

N.B. As a founding member of the Photo-Secession and publisher of Camera Work, Alfred Stieglitz was a major force in the promotion and elevation of photography as a fine art in America at the turn of the 20th century. While Stieglitz was based in New York City, he created some of his most exploratory photographs, including his celebrated Equivalents series of clouds, at his country estate in Lake George. Another subject to which he first turned his attention in 1932 was that of a stand of poplar trees, which he photographed from multiple angles and distances. These compositions reflect his shift from a Pictorialist to a modernist "straight" aesthetic, punctuated by the power lines that cross through the lower left corner, while also reflecting his embrace of the poplars and other trees on the property as a source of personal meditation.

This photograph was originally in the personal collection of Carl Zigrosser, who served as curator of prints, drawings, and rare books at the Philadelphia Museum of Art from 1941 to 1963.
Estimate $8,000-12,000

The name "Zigrosser" appears on the Dying Chestnut print at c.r.; since there are no indentations in the sheet, it may be transfer from something resting over its surface.


The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.

Keywords

Carl Zigrosser, New York City