Bernd & Hilla Becher (1931-2007 & b. 1934)

A collection of 13 loose sheets bearing individual architectural studies cut from contact sheets and reordered into groups according to the building type. Accompanied by a letter to Norbert Lynton, one-time Director of Exhibitions of the Arts Council of England. The sheets titled in pencil in the hand of Bernd Becher. The letter signed by both artists.

There are some few minor traces of adhesive damage on the reverse of some of the sheets. Some of the edges are a trifle soiled, and there are traces of erasure and correction on some of the titles. Photographic and paper surfaces are uniformly in excellent condition, however, and the same phrase applies to the whole. There are 290 images in 14 series on 13 pages.
"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."

The letter refers to the catalogue of the Becher's Munich touring exhibition which which can be precisely dated: it took place 6th March - 7th April 1967 at the Staatl.Museum für angewandte Kunst. The Arts Council exhibition of the work of the Bechers, curated by Norbert Lynton, toured in the UK in 1974-75. Between those dates, then, these pages can be dated among the earliest surviving demonstrations of the Bechers' working process.