Authenticity Of Adams’ ‘lost Works’ In Doubt
By WENNWednesday, July 28, 2010
A representative for ANSEL ADAMS has branded a stash of discarded glass negatives purportedly taken by the legendary photographer an “unfortunate fraud” after they were valued at $200 million (£133 million).
Painter Rick Norsigian claims to have paid just $45 (£30) for the negatives at a garage sale in California back in 2000.
A team of experts spent six months examining the items and reportedly concluded the 65 negatives were taken by the famed snapper, who died in 1984.
Norsigian has since spoken of his shock, telling reporters, “When I heard that $200 million, I got a little weak.”
But bosses at the Ansel Adams Publishing Rights Trust are calling into question the haul’s authenticity - and are even considering legal action against Norsigian for using Adams’ name for commercial use.
Bill Turnage, managing director of Ansel Adams Publishing Rights Trust, says, “It’s an unfortunate fraud. It’s very distressing.”
The landscape photographer’s relatives aren’t convinced either.
Matthew Adams, the photographer’s grandson, said: “There is no real hard evidence. I’m sceptical.”
