Brassaï

ferrotyped, signed, titled, dated, inscribed, and annotated in pencil and with the photographer's copyright/studio stamp on the reverse, framed, 1932, probably printed in the 1950s or 1960s (Photo Poche, pl. 63.)

The photographer to the present owner, 1981

This ferrotyped print, on single-weight paper, is in generally very good condition. As is typical of ferrotyped prints, pitting and an unevenness of the glossy surface are visible. Occasional faint scratches and a number of fingerprints on the bottom half of the photograph are also visible under raking light. The right edge is lightly rippled. There is a small deposit, likely retouching, at the upper right with scuffing surrounding the area. The reverse of the print is lightly soiled in several places. The photographer's inscription in pencil on the reverse reads: 'Pour / Virginia / bien amicalement / Brassai / Paris / le 3 Mars /1981' and 'Brassai / dans son / laboratoire / à Paris 1932 / (Hôtel des Terrasses).' Notations in an unidentified hand in pencil or ink read: '74,' 'no 65,' 'B7013Z,' 'B.0001-2,' and 'NO.764.' The copyright/studio stamp reads: ''81, Faubourg St-Jacques, Paris 14eme Tél 707.23.41.' When viewed under ultraviolet light, this print appears to faintly 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.