Brassaï

ferrotyped, signed in ink, titled and annotated 'vintage' in pencil and 'Pl. 833' in red ink and with the photographer's '81, Rue du Faub. - St - Jacques, Paris-XIV - Port-Royal 23-41' and '81, Faubourg St-Jacques, Paris-XIV Tél. 707-23-41' studio and copyright stamps on the reverse, circa 1931-32, probably printed in the 1950s or early 1960s (Secret Paris of the Thirties, unpaginated)

This ferrotyped print of this rarely-seen Brassai image is in generally very good condition. As is typical of the ferrotyping process, superficial surface scratches, pitting, and a slight unevenness of the generally glossy surface are visible. In raking light, fingerprints, deposits of original retouching, and occasional creases from handling are visible overall. The print is trimmed to the image, and the corners are rubbed. These issues are characteristic of the majority of Brassai's pre-1970s prints. On the reverse of the print, '16' [crossed out], '8),' and 'page?' are written in ink and pencil. When examined under ultraviolet light, this print appears to fluoresce.
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.