Irving Penn

mounted to Artmar illustration board, credit and Condé Nast copyright and reproduction rights stamps on the reverse, 1957 (Passage, p. 125)

Lunn Graphics International, Ltd., Washington, D. C.

This early print, on paper with a slight surface sheen, has a range of grey tones. It is in generally very good condition. In raking light, silvering is visible along the edges of the print. Also in raking light, the following are visible: three thin linear scratches in the lower portion of the image, which do not appear to break the emulsion; a slight crease in the lower left portion of the image, also not breaking the emulsion; a small matte area in the sitter's hat, possibly original retouching; and a pin-point-sized impression in the sitter's collar, not breaking the emulsion. There is minute edge chipping. None detract from the overall attractive appearance of the image. On the reverse of the mount, the following are annotated in an unidentified hand in pencil: 'p. 5770 N 36.'; 'Simon'; and 'Irving Penn - Picass.' There are cellulose tape remnants and some abrasions from the removal of tape along the edges on the reverse. There are also a few brown deposits of indeterminate nature. There are two credit stamps on the reverse, reading: 'Photograph by PENN' and 'Photograph by IRVING PENN.' The Condé Nast stamp on the reverse reads: 'COPYRIGHT / NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT / WRITTEN PERMISSION FROM / THE CONDÉ NAST PUBLICATIONS, INC.' 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.