Lucien Clergue

a group of 2 portfolios, comprising Jeux de l’Été and Caco au Grand Herbier, the first (1980, a total edition of 12), a portfolio of 12 chromogenic prints, each signed in pencil in the margin, signed, dated, and annotated in pencil on the reverse, 1980; together with the printed title and colophon, signed, dated, and editioned '5/12' in pencil.  Folio, grey cloth clamshell box with sand and rock inset; the second, (Paris: Galerie le Balcon des Arts, 1987), a portfolio of 10 gelatin silver and 10 Fresson prints, each signed in the margin, overmatted or in individual wrappers, 1975, printed in 1978; together with the printed title, introduction by Caco, and colophon, signed and editioned '7' in pencil.  Folio, beige raw silk wove clamshell box (2)

These portfolios are in generally very good to excellent condition. 'Jeux de l'Été' - The 12 chromogenic prints are in generally excellent condition. The colors are vibrant, without any apparent fading. The black margin edges are bumped, with some attendant chipping and losses of emulsion. Each print measures approximately 12 1/8 by 8 1/8 inches. The clamshell portfolio box is in generally very good condition, with some scuffs. The front matter is generally clean. 'Caco au Grand Herbier' - The 10 Fresson prints are each editioned '7/30' and numbered sequentially in pencil in the margin, the photographer's credit stamp on the reverse, in individual wrappers. Each measures approximately 17 by 11 3/4 inches. The Fresson prints are in generally excellent condition. The 10 gelatin silver prints are signed, sometimes twice, in ink or in pencil in the margin and overmatted. Each measures approximately 17 by 11 3/4 inches. In raking light, the following are visible on most of the prints: scattered deposits of orignal retouching, soft and sharp handling creases, and some yellow deposits of indeterminate nature in the margins and on the images. One print has shifted slightly in its overmat. The clamshell box is in generally excellent condition. The front matter has some foxing overall.
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.