Philippe Halsman

7 photographs and 2 contact sheets of Marilyn Monroe, most with the photographer's copyright stamp on the reverse, 1952, possibly printed later (Retrospective, pp. 129-30, variants) (9)

Gifts to the Denver Art Museum, 1983, 1987, and 1993

These photographs are in generally excellent condition. The portraits of Marilyn Monroe are on double-weight paper with a slight surface sheen. The contact prints are on lightweight paper with a semi-glossy surface. There are a few deposits of original retouching visible under high raking light on several of the photographs. On the reverse of several prints are the following numerical notations in pencil: '2,' '3,' '5,' '6,' '7,' and '8.' Two photographs are lacking the photographer's copyright stamp. When viewed under ultraviolet light the contact sheets appear to lightly fluoresce, while the portraits do not appear to fluoresce.
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.

The photographer's iconic portrait of Marilyn Monroe first appeared on the cover of LIFE magazine on 7 April 1952. It was the first of many LIFE covers for Monroe and has become one of the most collectible covers in LIFE’s history.