Photographer (1868–1952) known for his photos of the American West and stylized portraits of Native Americans. TLS signed “E. S. Curtis,” one page, 5.5 x 8.5, May 30, 1908. Letter concerning his magnum opus, the extraordinary 20-volume set The North American Indian. In full: "In regard to the North American Indian I am compelled to say that the limited edition of five hundred will be the only matter published from these plates, either text or pictures, and, from a broad point of view, this is perhaps unfortunate, but it seemed the only way to carry the matter through and secure the necessary support to make the work possible." In fine condition.
Edward Curtis dedicated nearly 30 years to creating The North American Indian, an ambitious 20-volume publication featuring over 2,200 photographs and nearly 5,000 pages of text. Initially conceived in 1903, the project gained momentum in 1906 with financial backing from J. P. Morgan, though it ultimately took 24 years to complete, with the final volume published in 1930. The sets, available only by subscription, were produced in limited numbers due to their high cost, with fewer than 300 completed under Curtis’ supervision. Despite its artistic and historical significance, financial struggles plagued the project, leading to the Morgan family acquiring all ownership rights. Today, most surviving sets are housed in museums, libraries, and private collections.
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