"Chief Joseph" E.S. Curtis Gold Tone

"Chief Joseph" E.S. Curtis. Centennial edition goldtone 22/200. Hand produced in 1999 from a vintage 1908 negative, limited edition 45/250. 13 1/4" x 16 1/4", frame 18 ½” x 22”H Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce is still widely considered to be one of the most important and noble tribal leaders of the 19th Century. This powerful orotone captures the commanding presence of Chief Joseph. The photograph reflects not only his noble pride but also the deep tragedies edured by his people. Afte ryears of resisting displacement, Joseph famously surrended in 1877 with the words "I will fight no more forever." Joseph became close friends with Edward Curtis and this friendship was pivitol in Curtis' later success in gaining the trust of numerous other tribes. Curtis was both the pioneer and most ardent proponent of the goldtone process, which he described as capable of retaining translucency, life, and iridesence often lost in conventional prints. This edition, issued by the Curtis Centennial Project after years of technical experimentation, demonstrates that brilliance with unparalleled depth, clarity and archival stability. This image is extremely rare as a vintage goldtone.