Man Ray

the photographer's '31 bis Rue Campagne Première' studio stamp (Manford M6) on the reverse, framed, circa 1925 (Man Ray's Paris Portraits, pl. 32)

Sotheby's New York, 6 April 2011, Sale 8730, Lot 88

This photograph, on double-weight paper with a semi-glossy surface, is in generally very good condition. There is age-appropriate silvering in the darkest areas of the image. There is a soft 2-inch crease in the upper left corner that does not break the emulsion and is only visible upon close examination in raking light. The following are also visible in raking light: a few minor scuffs, superficial scratches, and indentations, none of which breaks the emulsion. There is a tiny crease in the upper right corner, with attendant minor emulsion loss. This print is trimmed to the image, and there is some chipping emulsion in the lower right corner. These issues do not undermine the generally fine appearance of this early print. The print is hinged to the mat by 2 small pieces of linen tape on the reverse, and there are attendant tape remnants. Variant photographs of Cocteau made during the same session. Man Ray: Photography and Its Double, p. 20 Man Ray's Man Rays, p. 33 Man Ray: Paris~LA, p. 16 Man Ray (Taschen), p. 240
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.

Jean Cocteau, who met Man Ray in Paris in the early 1920s, was an avid and collaborative photographic subject.  The photograph offered here comes from a series Man Ray took of Cocteau actively and intently working on a wire sculpture self-portrait.