THE FIRST MEN TO CONQUER EVEREST: SIR EDMUND HILLARY AND TENZING NORGAY AFTER VICTORY: 1953: ORIGINAL PRESS PHOTOGRAPH

Publisher: P.A. Reuter, UK
Price: £6000.00
Date: June 20th, 1953
Photograph Size: 13cm x 20.5cm
Format: Original gelatin silver press photograph. 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.

Condition:

The photograph is in very near fine, clean condition. The reverse side features stamps and descriptions, providing provenance and authenticity.

Description:

This rare photograph captures the iconic moment after Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay’s historic ascent of Mount Everest on May 29, 1953. This image, taken shortly after their triumph, symbolizes the monumental achievement of the 1953 Everest Expedition, a defining moment in mountaineering history. Their successful climb marked the first confirmed ascent of the world’s highest peak at 8,848 meters (29,029 feet), showcasing human endurance and the spirit of exploration.

Historical Context:

An exceptionally important and early photograph of Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay together. Taken at the Thyangboche Monastery in the Nepalese Himalayas after the British team had conquered Mount Everest. The description on the reverse of the photograph states: ‘Smiling victors’.

Note: The photograph offered by us predates a similar one sold in the exceptional Fairfax Archive sale in New Zealand in 2020. That later photograph was titled on the reverse: ‘Everest behind them, Hillary and Tenzing return from conquest’ and was dated June 29th, 1953. It made NZ$14340 at auction and was the highlight of the sale. This photograph, dated 20th June, 1953, is nine days earlier. (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.

Location: Map drawer C: Folder: 3003

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