HILLARY, TENZING AND HUNT: EVEREST’S CONQUERING HEROES RETURN TO CIVILISATION: 1953: TELEPHOTO

Publisher: P.A. Reuter, UK
Price: £200.00
Date: June 24th, 1953
Photograph Size: 15.3cm x 20.5cm including margin
Format: Telephoto. Original copyright of P. A. Reuter Ltd, London, UK.
Edition: Not stated.
Special Features: This photograph is stamped and dated on the reverse with copyright information and a detailed description of the image. It states that it has been Telephotoed by P.A. Reuter.

Condition:

The photograph is in very good indeed, clean condition. There is slight creasing and creasing to the top left-hand corner and a little marking to the reverse. The reverse side features stamps and a description of the photograph providing cast-iron provenance and authenticity.

Historical Context:

Wearing garlands presented to them after their conquest Of Mount Everest, Colonel John Hunt, Edmund Hillary and Sherpa Tenzing are at the end of the 160-mile track down from the mountain, at the beginning of the road leading into Kathmandu.(Provenance: Shields Gazette Archive)

Sir Edmund Hillary: A Brief Biography

Sir Edmund Hillary (1919–2008) was a New Zealand mountaineer, explorer, and philanthropist, renowned for being one of the first two climbers, along with Tenzing Norgay, to reach the summit of Mount Everest. Born in Auckland, New Zealand, Hillary developed a passion for climbing in his youth, scaling New Zealand’s Southern Alps and honing his skills in preparation for greater challenges.

Conquest of Everest
Hillary’s most notable achievement came on May 29, 1953, when he and Tenzing Norgay became the first climbers confirmed to have reached the summit of Mount Everest, the highest point on Earth at 8,848 metres (29,029 feet). This historic ascent was part of a British expedition led by Sir John Hunt. The achievement brought Hillary international acclaim and established him as a leading figure in the world of exploration and mountaineering.

Later Life and Legacy
After his triumph on Everest, Hillary continued to explore, including expeditions to the South Pole and the Ganges River. He also dedicated much of his life to philanthropy, particularly in Nepal, where he founded the Himalayan Trust. This organization built schools, hospitals, and infrastructure, significantly improving the lives of the Sherpa community.

For his contributions to exploration and humanitarian efforts, Hillary received numerous honours, including a knighthood in 1953. His legacy is celebrated worldwide, and he remains an iconic figure in the annals of mountaineering history. Sir Edmund Hillary’s life story is one of adventure, determination, and a deep commitment to helping others.

Tenzing Norgay: A Brief Biography

Tenzing Norgay (1914–1986) was a renowned Nepalese-Indian Sherpa mountaineer and one of the first two individuals, alongside Sir Edmund Hillary, to reach the summit of Mount Everest, the highest point on Earth. Born Namgyal Wangdi in the Khumbu region of Nepal, Tenzing’s early life was steeped in the rich traditions of the Sherpa people, known for their mountaineering skills.

Early Life and Career
Tenzing Norgay’s interest in mountaineering began at a young age, inspired by the exploits of early climbers in the Himalayas. He started working as a porter and guide for various mountaineering expeditions, quickly gaining a reputation for his exceptional skills, strength, and resilience in high-altitude environments.

Conquest of Everest
Tenzing Norgay’s most significant achievement came on May 29, 1953, when he and Sir Edmund Hillary became the first climbers confirmed to have reached the summit of Mount Everest, standing at 8,848 metres (29,029 feet). This historic ascent, part of a British expedition led by Sir John Hunt, marked a defining moment in the history of mountaineering and brought international recognition to both climbers.

The success of the expedition was a testament to Tenzing’s deep knowledge of the mountains and his experience as a climber. His partnership with Hillary symbolized the collaboration between Western climbers and Sherpas, who played crucial roles in Himalayan expeditions.

Later Life and Legacy
After the Everest expedition, Tenzing Norgay continued to be involved in mountaineering, working as a guide and instructor. He played a pivotal role in training future climbers and promoting mountaineering tourism in Nepal. In 1978, he founded the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute in Darjeeling, India, which remains a premier training facility for mountaineers.

Tenzing received numerous honours and awards for his contributions to mountaineering, including the George Medal from the United Kingdom and the Padma Bhushan from the Government of India. He passed away on May 9, 1986, in Darjeeling, India, leaving behind a legacy as a pioneering mountaineer and a symbol of the Sherpa people’s integral role in Himalayan exploration.

Tenzing Norgay’s life and achievements continue to inspire climbers around the world, and he is celebrated as one of the greatest mountaineers of the 20th century.

Sir John Hunt: A Brief Biography

Sir John Hunt (1910–1998) was a British army officer and mountaineer best known for leading the successful 1953 British Expedition to Mount Everest. Born in India, Hunt was educated in the United Kingdom and later joined the British Army, serving with distinction during World War II. His military career, characterized by leadership and resilience, provided a strong foundation for his later achievements in mountaineering.

The 1953 Everest Expedition
Hunt was chosen to lead the 1953 British Everest Expedition, a critical mission in the history of mountaineering. The expedition’s objective was to achieve the first successful ascent of Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak at 8,848 metres (29,029 feet). Under Hunt’s leadership, the team meticulously planned and executed the climb, overcoming extreme weather conditions and challenging terrain.

On May 29, 1953, team members Sir Edmund Hillary of New Zealand and Tenzing Norgay of Nepal reached the summit, marking a historic achievement. This ascent not only brought international fame to the climbers but also stood as a testament to human endurance and the spirit of exploration.

Legacy
Sir John Hunt’s leadership was widely praised for its strategic planning and emphasis on teamwork, which were crucial to the expedition’s success. For his contributions, Hunt was knighted, becoming Sir John Hunt. His work laid the foundation for future Himalayan explorations and inspired generations of climbers. Hunt’s legacy is immortalized in the annals of mountaineering history, and his role in the conquest of Everest remains a pivotal moment in the story of human adventure.

Location: Map drawer C: Folder: 3002

Why Buy From Us?

At Hornseys, we only offer items that meet the highest standards of quality and authenticity. Our collection of prints and photographs is carefully curated to ensure each piece is authentic.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Authenticity and Provenance: Every photograph is researched, collated, and verified for authenticity.
• Expert Curation: Each photograph is selected with a keen eye for historical significance, condition, and rarity, ensuring a collection that is both diverse and distinguished.
• Customer Satisfaction: We strive to provide an exceptional customer experience, from detailed descriptions and provenance to secure and prompt delivery of your purchase.
• Returns Policy: We offer an unconditional guarantee on every item. If you wish to make a return, items may be sent back to us within fourteen days of receipt for any reason. We request advance notification of returns, and items must be returned in the same condition as sent for a full refund.

Explore Our Collection:
Visit Hornseys to explore our fine collection of rare and antique prints and photographs. Whether you are an avid collector or looking for a unique historical piece, our selection offers something truly exceptional. Located in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales, our Ripon gallery has been a haven for art enthusiasts, historians, and collectors since 1976.

Thank you for looking.