Fernand Khnopff 1858-1921

hand-colored collotype, signed by the photographer in pencil in the margin, in a gilt passe-partout, framed, circa 1900

Christie's South Kensington, May 1998, Sale 7979, Lot 229

Acquired by Nancy Richardson from the above

This lovely, delicately-toned photograph has been carefully hand-colored by Khnopff in a variety of muted pastel colors that only become apparent after close inspection. The image itself is in excellent condition. There is some inconsequential soiling and age-darkening in the margins.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The print offered here is a hand-tinted collotype reproduction of one of symbolist painter Fernand Khnopff's best-known compositions, En Ecoutant du Schumann, a painting now in the collection of the Musées Royaux des Beaux-Arts de Belgique.   With the assistance of photographer Albert Edouard Drains (known professionally as Alexandre), Khnopff issued photographic versions of his paintings for sale, augmenting them with hand-applied color, and signing them.  Khnopff produced these prints in limited quantities, and they are, consequently, rarely seen today.