JAMES VAN DER ZEE | 'James Van Der Zee: Eighteen Photographs'

(Washington, D. C.: Graphics International Ltd., 1974, a total edition of 90), a portfolio of 18 photographs, each mounted, signed and with edition '25/75' and plate number in pencil on the mount, 1905-38, printed in 1974; together with the printed title, introduction by Regenia A. Perry, chronology, plate list, and colophon.  Folio, charcoal linen folding box with silver lettering on spine, matching slipcase

This portfolio, with prints made by Richard Benson, is in generally excellent condition. Several of the plates are signed, dated, and annotated 'N. Y. C.' in the negative. The portfolio was issued in an edition of 75, plus 15 copies numbered I-XV reserved for the Van Der Zee Institute. The following are visible on some of the photographs: a few faint glossy deposits visible only in raking light; small hairline scratches that do not appear to break the emulsion; and small rust-colored stains of indeterminate nature on the mount. The plates are as follows: Mrs. Turner, Lenox, Massachusetts, 1905 Whittier Preparatory School, Phoebus, Virginia, 1907 The Van DerZee Men, Lenox, Massachusetts, 1908 Kate and Rachel Van DerZee, Lenox, Massachusetts, 1909 Miss Suzie Porter, Harlem, 1915 Nude, Harlem, 1923 Marcus Garvey and Garvey Militia, Harlem, 1924 Garveyite Family, Harlem, 1924 Dancer, Harlem, 1925 Portrait of An Actor, Harlem, 1929 Swimming Team, Harlem, 1925 Wedding Day, Harlem, 1926 Black Jews, Harlem, 1929 Atlantic City, 1930 Portrait of Two Brothers and Their Sister, Harlem, 1931 Couple, Harlem, 1932 The Heiress, Harlem, 1938 Daddy Grace, Harlem, 1938 There is minor soiling on the printed title page. The linen folding box and slipcase are in generally excellent condition. There is very minor wear to the edges of the slipcase.
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.