Bill Brandt

the photographer's credit stamp on the reverse, framed, 1945 (Shadow of Light, pl. 30; London in the Thirties, pl. 23; Behind the Camera, p. 17)

Estate of the photographer, Edwynn Houk, agent

Irving Galleries, Palm Beach, 2001

As is typical of Brandt's early photographs, this print is on single-weight paper with a surface sheen. Brandt left an approximately one-inch white margin at the bottom and a 1/8-inch margin at the left, right, and upper edges. Also typical of his early printing style, this perfectly-rendered image is relatively low in contrast – in the 1960s and continuing into the 1970s, Brandt printed his images with progressively greater contrast. In raking light, a few pin-point-sized impressions are visible, as is a small linear impression in the center-right portion of the image, none of which appear to break the emulsion. There is a small white area at the left sitter's waist - this is an unretouched flaw in the negative and not a loss on the print. The thin right margin is worn and lightly soiled. The margin corners are bumped and lightly creased. When examined under ultraviolet light, this print 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.