Ansel Adams is undeniably the most recognized American photographer, celebrated for his breathtaking representation of the American wilderness, his dedication to conservation efforts, and his innovative impact on the art of photography. As such, Selkirk is honored to offer our headliner of the sale: Aspens, Northern New Mexico (Horizontal), 1958, an original silver gelatin mural print by Ansel Adams. This rare and exceptional photograph captivates viewers at an impressive 40 x 52 inches. The present lot is the first of this image at this magnificent size to come to market in the past 25 years. Gifted in 1967 directly from Ansel Adams to Sigurd F. Olson, one of America’s most recognized nature writers and influential conservationists of the twentieth century, this work was then donated by Olson to the Sigurd Olson Environmental Institute at Northland College in June 1981. Aspens, Northern New Mexico (Horizontal), 1958 has remained in the collection of Northland College until this time.
A photograph of a very different nature will also make its way to the auction block on February 14. We offer a large format, signed portrait photograph of Grand Duchess Tatiana Nikolaevna of Russia (1897–1918). An image both striking and historically significant, the Duchess was but 18 years old at the time that she hand-signed, inscribed, and dated this photograph on March 16, 1916– only two years before her tragic death.
