Francis Bruguière

flush-mounted, the number '18' in pencil on the reverse, framed, the Buhl Collection label on the reverse, 1923-27

Swann Galleries, 7 October 1997, Sale 1767, Lot 191, Steven Kasher, New York, agent

This early, warm-toned print, on paper with a surface sheen and mounted to a medium-weight gray illustration board, is in generally very good condition. The edges are rubbed, and the corners are slightly bumped. When examined in raking light, the following are visible: faint scratches, none of which breaks the emulsion; and light silvering at the periphery on the right and lower sides.
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.

Bruguière produced the present image in preparation for The Way, his surrealistic film starring Sebastian Droste (1898-1927) and Rosalinde Fuller, Bruguière’s muse and companion.  Droste, a German actor and poet, was famous for the scandalous ‘dances of vice, horror, and ecstasy’ he performed with the equally notorious Anita Berber throughout Europe.   Addicted to drugs, he died in 1927, before the film could be completed.  Bruguière’s photographs for The Way were included in his first one-man exhibition in New York in 1927.