Robert Frank

signed, titled, and dated '1955' in ink and with 2 square labels, one with numerical notations in pencil and ink, in the margin, annotations in pencil and ink on the reverse, framed, Bloom Collection and Pace Wildenstein MacGill labels on the reverse, 1955, probably printed in the 1960s

Pace/MacGill Gallery, New York, 1997

The Americans, no. 27

Sarah Greenough, Looking In: Robert Frank's The Americans, pp. 241 (cropped) and 468, and Contact no. 27 

Mike Weaver, ed., The Art of Photography, 1839-1989, pl. 323

Robert Frank: Story Lines, p. 206 

This early print shows the full negative, with the black edges and sprocket holes visible. An impressive level of detail is visible throughout the image, with the individual titles of the periodicals in the newsstand easily legible. This photograph is on double-weight paper with a semi-glossy surface, and is in generally good to very good condition. Only visible upon close examination in raking light is a sharp, horizontal crease (measuring approximately 1½ inches), which appears to break the emulsion, in the upper portion of the image. As is visible in the catalogue illustration, there are 2 intersecting creases (measuring no larger than 1½ inches) along the lower edge of the image, which appear to break the emulsion, with a tiny attendant loss of emulsion. A 2-inch diagonal crease in the lower left corner extends from the left margin into the image and bisects the title in the lower margin. None of the above detracts from the impressive quality of this early full-negative print. In the right margin, there are 2 small rectangular labels. One is annotated in an unidentified hand: '65' (in pencil); '.69' (in ink and crossed out in pencil); 'pg 59 [crossed out] 65' (in pencil or ink). Margin wear and creases are consistent with handling. There is a 1/2-inch linear crease in the upper margin, which extends into the image slightly. The reverse of the print is lightly soiled, and there are a few minor abrasions. The following are written in an unidentified hand in pencil or ink: '2706-I' (in duplicate); 'E3'; 'F. 17'; RF.A.OI.027.2.' When examined under ultraviolet light, this print appears to fluoresce. It is believed that only 8 other prints of this image have previously been offered at auction.
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.