Robert Frank

signed in ink in the margin, numerical notation in pencil on the reverse, framed, Bloom Collection and Pace Wildenstein MacGill labels on the reverse, 1955, printed later

Pace/MacGill Gallery, New York, 1998

The Americans, no. 46

Sarah Greenough, Looking In: Robert Frank’s The Americans, pp. 265 and 473, and Contact no. 46

U. S. Camera [Annual] 1958, p. 105

Helen Gee, Photography of the Fifties: An American Perspective, p. 159

Alfred Appel, Jr., Signs of Life, p. 65

Jonathan Green, American Photography: A Critical History, 1945 to the Present, p. 93

Mike Weaver, ed., The Art of Photography, 1839-1989, pl. 324

Robert Frank: Story Lines, frontispiece 5 and p. 103

Peter Galassi, Robert Frank: In America, p. 180

This print, on double-weight Agfa paper with a semi-glossy surface, is in generally very good condition. A 2-inch subtle, soft, vertical crease extends from the upper left corner of the movie screen into the sky area and is visible only under raking light. Additionally, there are a few very faint scratches and linear impressions that are visible only under raking light. The margin corners are bumped and the upper left corner has a diagonal crease that appears to break the emulsion. The edges are rubbed, and there are a few soft handling creases in the margins that do not appear to break the emulsion. There is a small (approx. one-inch diameter) matte area in the lower left margin corner. The reverse of the print bears some long, linear pencil marks, several of which show on the front of the paper as subtle raised areas when viewed under raking light. There is minor soiling on the reverse. 'RF.A.0I.046' is written in an unidentified hand in pencil. It is believed that only 5 prints of this image have previously been offered at auction.
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.