John Beasley Greene (American, 1832-1856) River Bank, Algeria

Description:

John Beasley Greene (American, 1832-1856)

River Bank, Algeria, 1855-56. Albumenized salt print from a waxed paper negative, image/sheet size 9 1/2 x 11 3/4 in. (24.6 x 29.9 cm),matted, unframed.
Condition: Minor discoloration of sheet on the verso.

N.B. John Beasley Greene was a French-born American archaeologist, who studied with the photographer Gustave Le Gray, creating views of Paris, still lifes, and landscapes using the waxed paper negative process. In 1853 at the age of twenty-one, he embarked on an expedition to Egypt and Nubia to photograph the land and document monuments and their inscriptions.

In 1855 Greene, who suffered from poor health, visited Algeria with its favorable climate at the recommendation of his doctors. There he pursued his interest in landscape photography, exploiting light to accentuate the surfaces and textures of the rocks and foliage, to create subtle gradations of tone, and to soften lines and contours. Greene died in Egypt, reportedly in Cairo, in November of 1856, most likely of tuberculosis.
Estimate $3,000-5,000

Very minor handling crimp/crease l.c. between rock formations. No additional issues to report.


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.

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