Bill Stone

toned gelatin silver photograph, with numerical notations in an unidentified hand in the margin, 1978

From the Collection of Bob Guccione, Sr.

This photograph is in generally fair condition. There are many soft and sharp handling creases throughout, some of which appear to break the emulsion. The edges and corners are creased, and the upper and lower margin edges have a slight wave. There is a small tear in the lower left margin edge; a piece of linen tap is on the reverse to stabilize the tear. '121' and '11' are written in an unidentified hand in orange crayon in the margin. '53727D' and '54-55B' are written in an unidentified hand in ink on a white label in the margin. On the reverse, are a square is drawn in pencil and a small tape remnant. The reverse is 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.

The photograph offered here comes from the now-famous series of nude studies Bill Stone made of then-unknown Madonna Ciccone in New York City in 1978.  During this time, Madonna earned money as an artist’s model at the Art Students League, and this led to posing for photographers.  Stone’s photographs were opportunistically published by Penthouse magazine in 1985 just as Madonna, propelled by MTV and the success of her second album Like a Virgin, was coming to national attention.