Eugène Atget

printing-out-paper print, titled and numbered '4439' in pencil and with the photographer's 'Rue Campagne-Première, 17 bis' studio stamp, annotated '17 bis' in pencil, on the reverse, framed, 1901-02

Scott Elliott Gallery, New York

Grading this printing-out-paper print on a scale from 1 to 10 - a 10 being a print that has rich, deep dark tones and highlights that retain all their original detail - this print rates a 10. It has saturated eggplant tones, bright highlights, and a smooth, high-gloss surface. The print exhibits an extremely high degree of detail, from the chiseled braid of Mathilde de Flandres statue, to the inscriptions on the pedestal, to the windows of the building in the background. This print is in generally excellent condition. There is minor chipping along the right edge and corners. The upper right corner and the lower left corner are bumped. Upon close inspection, soft diagonal impressions are barely visible at each corner. In raking light, the following are visible: a 2-1/2-inch scratch and a few soft creases in the lower central portion of the image. None appears to break the emulsion and these do not detract in any way from the fine appearance of this print.
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.