Berenice Abbott

gelatin silver print, the photographer’s Federal Art Project Changing New York and caption stamps, with title, date, and annotations in pencil, on the reverse, 1938

This early contact print, on smooth double-weight paper with a surface sheen, is in generally excellent condition. Upon close examination, there is a tiny black adhesion – possibly original retouching – to the right of the Chrysler Building. This print has thin, uneven margins. The reverse of the print is appropriately age-darkened and lightly soiled from handling. The 'Changing New York' caption stamp on the reverse is annotated in ink with the following information: Title: 'Contrasting No. 331 East Thirty-Ninth Street with Chrysler Building (left) and Daily News Building (right)' Place: 'Manhattan' Date: 'Nov. 9, 1938' Neg. # 'L 30' Code: 'I G'
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.