Peter Beard b. 1938

a unique object, mural-sized, signed, titled, dated and annotated 'Peter Beard, Hog Ranch, Box 47616, Nairobi, Kenya,' and inscribed with a passage from Joseph Conrad by the photographer in black, white, and red inks on the image, and with drawings of insects, animals, and a deer; blood; and collage elements: a box of matches; a leaf; a photo strip of 3 images of a baby mountain gorilla; half-tone reproductions of a red sweater, Peter Beard photographs of animals, and a self-portrait with a crocodile annotated 'I'll write whenever I can' by the photographer in ink, framed, 1987, printed and collaged in the 1990s

This photograph has not been examined out of its frame. It appears to be in excellent condition. The quotation from Joseph Conrad's 'Heart of Darkness' is as follows: "The danger, if any, I expounded, was from our proximity to a great human passion let loose."
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 Peter Beard Studio has confirmed the authenticity of this lot.