Eugene Atget

printing-out-paper print, numbered '436' in the negative, mounted, a 'Photo E. Atget / Collection Berenice Abbott / 1 W. 67th ST.' stamp and with title and '#436' in pencil on the reverse, framed, 1913 (Atget, Vol. IV, pl. 52; Nesbit, p. 405)

David Mancini Gallery, Philadelphia, 1980

Grading this printing-out-paper print on a scale of 1 to 10--a 10 being a print with deep brown dark tones and highlights that retain all of their original detail--this print rates a 9. This photograph has rich eggplant tones, creamy highlights, and is in generally very good condition. Some light fading and faint yellowing can be seen at the print's left and lower edges; this does not detract from the overwhelmingly fine appearance of this print. Upon extremely close examination, 3 long hairline scratches that may break the emulsion are visible in the lower-central portion of the image. A few small creases and raised areas, likely particles trapped between the print and mount, are also visible in raking light. These may have occurred prior to or as a result of mounting. This photograph is mounted to thin cream-colored card. The mount is lightly soiled, and the corners are bumped. There is a small abrasion to the upper left corner of the mount and a small remnant of linen tape in the upper right corner. The reverse of the mount is abraded along the upper edge and lower right corner. 'Port d'Ansieres' [sic], '#436,' and 'Cg 80-2' are written on the reverse in an unidentified modern hand in pencil.
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.