Philippe Ramette

chromogenic print, flush-mounted, a Galerie Xippas, Paris, label, signed in ink and with title and edition '1/5' in letterpress, on the reverse, framed, 2003

Although this photograph has not been examined out of its frame, it appear to be in generally excellent condition. On the reverse of the frame there is a second Galerie Xippas, Paris, label.
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 surreal photograph offered here depicts the artist suspended above the ground and standing on a stone wall at what appears to be an unrealizable angle.  This gravity-defying image is not conceived through skilled digital manipulation.  Rather, Philippe Ramette's improbable and often humorous images are the result of attentive planning and intricate set creation.  Ramette, first a sculptor and second a photographer, approaches the creation of each image with the use of detailed sketches, not unlike storyboards used in film.  Custom-built hidden structural supports are crafted to buttress the photographer in his physically impossible scenarios.  As in Crise de Désinvolture, the photographer always appears in a black suit incongruous to the backdrop depicted.