SANTA FE, N.M. — Christopher Cardozo (1948-2021) was the world’s leading expert on Edward S. Curtis (1868-1952), whose The North American Indian was the first scholarly presentation documenting and preserving information about Native Americans. Cardozo’s collection of photogravures — plus an artist’s proof copy of his exhaustive reissue of Curtis’ work — will appear at Santa Fe Art Auctions on Wednesday, April 10. The complete catalog is now available for review and bidding at LiveAuctioneers.
The artist’s proof of Cardozo’s own magnum opus, the artisanal reproduction of The North American Indian, is the star of the sale. Lovingly and painstakingly assembled during years of work, each of the 75 limited edition sets presents Curtis’ photography and writings in its entirety: 2,234 photographs, and 2,500,000 words and transcriptions of Native language and music. This edition is number 2 of 8 personally authorized by Cardozo, examples of which are rarely, if ever, seen at auction. Hindman sold a Curtis original in November 2023 with a hammer prices of $700,000 ($910,000 with buyer’s premium). Cardozo’s edition is estimated at $20,000-$30,000.
The sale also features numerous Edward S. Curtis photogravures owned by Cardozo. They include Medicine Crow – Apsaroke, 1908, estimated at $4,000-$6,000; Lawyer – Nez Perce, 1905, estimated at $3,500-$4,500; and Shot in the Head – Apsaroke, 1908, estimated at $3,000-$5,000.
Edward S. Curtis, 'The North American Indian - Cardozo Fine Art Republication,' estimated at $20,000-$30,000 at Santa Fe Art Auction.
Edward S. Curtis, 'Lawyer - Nez Perce, 1905,' estimated at $3,500-$4,500 at Santa Fe Art Auction.
Edward S. Curtis, 'Medicine Crow - Apsaroke, 1908,' estimated at $4,000-$6,000 at Santa Fe Art Auction.
Edward S. Curtis, 'Shot in the Hand - Apsaroke, 1908,' estimated at $3,000-$5,000 at Santa Fe Art Auction.