Aaron Siskind 1903-1991

flush-mounted to thick board, mounted again to a white-painted wood board, framed, 1947

Christie's New York, 5 October 1999, Sale 9298, Lot 337

Acquired by Nancy Richardson from the above

New York, Egan Gallery, Aaron Siskind: 30 Recent Photographs,  1947

This early exhibition print is flush-mounted to a thick, hard board -- possibly Masonite. This mount is affixed to a white-painted piece of thick wood. This style of presentation, in which the photograph is displayed unglazed, was used by Siskind in the early 1950s. A number of other lots in the Nancy Richardson Collection are similarly presented (see Lots 46, 50, 50, and 58). This white-painted mount is attached to a modern black-painted backboard which fits snugly into a modern frame. The print shows a number of losses in the emulsion, and these are visible in the catalogue illustration. These are, most noticeably, two in the upper right quadrant, two in the lower right quadrant, and one near the lower left corner. There is general wear on the edges and corners. As is typical of photographs mounted to Masonite, the surface of this print has, over time, developed a slightly craquelure appearance. This does not detract from considerable presence of this print, or diminish its considerable object quality.
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.