Josef Koudelka

Digital print from the original negative, printed 2008, flush-mounted to card. Signed and numbered in ink on label affixed to the reverse of the card. Ed. 3/20.

Pace/ MacGill, New York

1968: Magnum throughout the World, Paris: Éditions Hazan, 1998, np.;
J. Koudelka, Invasion 68: Prague, New York: Aperture, 2008

This print is in overall very good to excellent condition. With some very light, superficial scratches in the margins, only visible in raking light.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Koudelka’s documentation of one of the most pivotal and dramatic weeks in twentieth-century European history, the Russian invasion of Prague in 1968, is testament to his desire to record his social surroundings. He has suggested that at the time that he was not even aware of the concept of photojournalism, and that “it was just important to photograph what I was part of.” The extent to which he risked his life to capture these photos is evident in the emotional and politically intense images. The depiction of the street protestors in Russian Invasion of Prague (1968) indicates Koudelka’s willingness to be at the centre of the conflict in order to capture a photograph. The very essence of human spirit is at the heart of much of Koudelka’s work, and is overwhelmingly evident in these moving photographs of the spontaneous protests in Prague that saw the death of many.