Irving Penn

platinum-palladium print, flush-mounted to aluminum, signed, titled, dated, editioned '2/50,' and annotated in pencil and stamped on the reverse, 1960, printed in 1976 (MoMA, pl. 35)

This print is in generally excellent condition. There are a few rust-colored deposits of indeterminate nature in the lower left portion of the image and in the margin. There is light wear and abrasions along the margin edges. There is a piece of tape on the left margin that wraps to the reverse of the mount. There is adhesive residue along the top of the aluminum edge. The photographer has annotated the reverse of the mount in pencil: '999' [circled]; 'BF 360 on aluminum'; 'multiple coating and printing'; '1 [circled] platinum'; '2 [circled] platinum'; '3 [circled] platinum-palladium'; and 'print made December 1976'. The Condé Nast copyright stamp is dated '1960' in pencil. The edition information stamp indicates that in addition to the 50 numbered platinum prints, there may exist no more than 25 signed, unnumbered gelatin silver prints. The reverse is also stamped 'deacidified' and 'hand-coated by the photographer.' Also on the reverse, '79:103' is written in an unidentified hand in pencil. There are four circular abrasions from previous matting, and abrasions and tape remnants along the mount edges. The margins and the reverse of the mount are lightly soiled.
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.