Rudolf Koppitz

toned, the photographer’s blindstamp on the image, mounted, 1925

Jo-Ann Conklin and Monika Faber, eds., Rudolf Koppitz 1884–1936 (Vienna, 1995), cover and p. 83

Pam Roberts, PhotoHistorica: Landmarks in Photography, Rare Images from the Collection of The Royal Photographic Society (New York, 2000), p. 221

Monika Faber and Klaus Albrecht Schröder, The Eye and the Camera: The Albertina Collection of Photographs (Paris, 2003), p. 191

This toned gelatin silver print, mounted to board, in is overall very good condition. This rendering of Koppitz's most well-known image exhibits the hallmarks of the photographer's masterful prints, including a subtle change in tonal gradation from soft, velvety blacks to glowing, warm highlights and a pleasing sepia tone. Please note that the catalogue reproduction appears overall more green in tone than the present print actually is. There are scattered pinpoint-sized abrasions overall, including near the photographer's blindstamp on the front figure's leg. There are a few attendant tiny deposits of original retouching, which have turned somewhat yellow-brown. There is a tiny vertical abrasion in the arm of the right figure, possibly with deposits of original retouching. When examined closely under raking light, deposits of expert, modern retouching are visible, mostly in the upper left quadrant and upper left margin. The mount is overall age-darkened, faintly soiled in areas, and discolored around the perimeter of the print. There are framer's notations on the mount under the image, and in the center right margin in graphite. There are tack holes in each corner of the mount. The reverse is heavily soiled, with a few liquid drips, scattered fox marks, and extensive framer's notations in graphite. This photograph has undergone conservation. For a full treatment report, please contact the Photographs Department.
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.