Lot 287

AUDUBON, John James (1785-1851). Autograph letter signed ("John J. Audubon") to his son Victor. Pittsfield, [MA], 11 September 1844. One page, 4to (234 x 194 mm), with integral leaf addressed in holograph. Some minor pale spotting, remnants of previous mounting at corners on verso, mailing folds.

Sale 759 - Selections from the Library of Gerald and Barbara Weiner

Oct 8, 2020 10:00AM CT

Live / Chicago

Estimate

$3,000 - $4,000

Sold for $3,250

Sold prices are inclusive of Buyer’s Premium

Lot Description

ADDING SUBSCRIBERS FOR HIS NEW BOOK ON NORTH AMERICAN QUADRUPEDS.

Informing his son that he has obtained more subscribers for their Viviparous Quadrupeds of North America: “I have obtained three more subscribers since my last to you… The subscribers are follows. —

1. Hble. Henry Shaw, Lanesboro (Pittsfield)

2. L. Pomeroy…

3. Thomas Allen, St. Louis, Mo. I have some hopes of another this day…”

Also reporting on his sporting activities, “We went fishing for Pickerel and caught 10… We go again tomorrow morning at 4 o’clock…” He also gives his forthcoming travel plans through Hudson and Troy, New York. And concludes: “I hope to find you all quite well. God bless you all…”

Victor Gifford Audubon (1809-1862) assisted his father, along with his brother John Woodhouse Audubon, in the creation of The Viviparous Quadrupeds of North America. While he did contribute some artistic work to the project, his main function was to handle the business of producing and selling the work, along with the earlier The Birds of America. After his father's death, Victor continued to manage the business aspects in promoting his father's work.

Of the subscribers he mentions, Henry Shaw had served as a U.S. Congressman from Massachusetts and was at the time in the MA legislature. He was an unsuccessful candidate for Governor of Massachusetts in 1845. Thomas Allen was a successful St. Louis banker and railroad executive who later was elected to Congress.

Condition Report

The physical condition of lots in our auctions can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration/repair. All lots are sold "AS IS," in the condition they are in at the time of the auction, and we and the seller make no representation or warranty and assume no liability of any kind as to a lot's condition. Any reference to condition in a catalogue description or a condition report shall not amount to a full accounting of condition. Condition reports prepared by Hindman staff are provided as a convenience and may be requested from the Department prior to bidding.

The absence of a posted condition report on the Hindman website or in our catalogues should not be interpreted as commentary on an item's condition. Prospective buyers are responsible for inspecting a lot or sending their agent or conservator to inspect the lot on their behalf, and for ensuring that they have requested, received and understood any condition report provided by Hindman.

Please email conditionreports@hindmanauctions.com for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.