Bill Brandt

titled in ink in the margin, the photographer's '58, Hillfield Court, Belsize Avenue, London, N. W. 3.' studio stamp and a typed caption label on the reverse, 1940s

Acquired from Edwynn Houk Gallery, Chicago, 1987

There is a 2 1/2-inch linear crease in the image in the upper left corner – this does not break the emulsion and is visible only upon close examination. Also only visible under close scrutiny in raking light is a series of faint striations or stress cracks visible in the surface in the lower left quadrant. None of these condition issues is immediately apparent, nor do they spoil in any way the appearance of this lovely print. As is typical of Brandt's early photographs, this print is on single-weight paper which has a semi-glossy surface. Brandt left an approximately one-inch white border at the bottom only, and this is where he has written his title. Also typical of his early printing style, this perfectly-rendered image is relatively low in contrast – in the 1960s and continuing into the1970s, Brandt printed his images with progressively higher contrast. When this print is viewed under ultraviolet light, it does not appear 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.

The caption label on the reverse of this print bears the heading 'Ancient Monuments of Britain -- The Devil's Den, Wiltshire,' and reads, 'The Devil's Den is lost in the cornfields on the long slopes of the Downs between Marlborough and Avebury.  Dating from prehistoric times it is thought to have been an uncovered tomb and is known as one of the finest examples of a dolmen.'  A dolmen is a stone structure consisting of two or more upright stones with a capstone connecting them.