Sunburn or more serious problem?
 

just received this pair of cattleyas in sheath from a commercial orchid grower, both grown strong & hard in lava rock. Note the extensive black patches on many of the leaves of the one on the left. Sunburn? Heat damage (though there is no wilting)? Rot? There are a couple soft spots within the black areas, but mostly they are just black. Almost looks like the areas near the black have been masked or shaded, thus my thought it is just a bad sunburn.

many thx for your help - a new forum member but a somewhat experienced grower,
Steelheadr

I dont kniw what that is but I do know I wouldnt be pleased with it! I would send that picture to the vendor and see what they have to say. Keep it in quarantine untill you find out something...Jean

PS I dont think it is sunburn....Jean

Black, turning to stiff "parchment" would be an example of sunburn. "Soft" is indicative of some sort of rot.

I'd definitely expect a refund or replacement for that plant - and as a vendor, would be anxious to make that right.

The grower says it is heat damage incurred during shipment (which I believe) and is shipping another plant. Problem resolved.

Sunburn. The one on the right is in very poor condition for an orchid from a professional grower. the one on the left was subjected to direct sunlight for an extended period of time. I would ask for my money back. This wasn't done in shipping. He sent them this way and klnows it. But for me if he's sending me replacements to clear his name, I'd be pleased. This damage is not unrecoverable. What leaves are there are older pbulbs and the next batch will probably bloom. The sheaths look to be in good condition. Good luck.