Eugène Atget 1857-1927

albumen print, titled and numbered '4367' by the photographer in pencil on the reverse, circa 1901

Graphics International, Ltd., Washington, D. C.

Acquired by David J. Weber from the above

Christie's New York, 8 April 1998, Sale 8884, Lot 217

Acquired by Nancy Richardson from the above

Grading this albumen print on a scale of 1 to 10--a 10 being an albumen print with deep brown dark tones and highlights that retain all of their original detail--this print rates a 10. It is a strong print with great detail and rich tones. The lighter areas along the sides of the print are in the original negative. This photograph, on paper that is unevenly trimmed, is in generally very good condition. There is a barely visible crease running across the bottom edge of the print that can only be seen in raking light. The corners are all very lightly creased, and this is most evident when viewing the photograph in raking light or from the back. Just to the right of the center of the print, a number of small circular marks of light-gold discoloration are visible. These do not detract from the overall attractive appearance of this print. In 'The Work of Atget. Volume III: The Ancien Regime,' Maria Morris Hambourg has chronologically dated, in the form of an extensive chart, Atget's photographs by their series and negative numbers. The chart is the most comprehensive to date, and our dating of this print is based upon the author's assessment of the photographer's series and negative numbers. The negative number on this print '4367' indicates that this image was taken circa 1901 (cf. 'The Work of Atget. Volume III: The Ancien Regime,' pp. 181-85).
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.