Gustave Le Gray

albumen print, numbered '14,918' in black ink on the reverse, 1857

Sylvie Aubenas, Gustave Le Gray 1820-1884 (Los Angeles: Getty Publications, 2002), fig. 145 and cat. 134

Grading this matte-surface albumen print on a scale of 1 to 10 - a 10 being a print with rich dark brown tones and highlights that retain all of their original detail - it rates a 9. This photograph has creamy highlights that are slightly warm, and dark eggplant tones that are nearly black. This matte-surface albumen print is in generally good condition. Handling creases are visible overall, especially along the edges. The corners are bumped and creased with attendant losses of emulsion that appear to have been expertly retouched. Along the edges, several tears, including one that is 2-1/2-inches and perpendicular to the upper edge and one that is 2-inches and perpendicular to the lower edge, have been expertly repaired and retouched. The retouching has slightly discolored in some areas but is overall quite fine. In high raking light, a fingerprint is visible along the right edge. On the reverse, the negative number '14,918' is written by the photographer in black ink. The reverse is slightly soiled and there may be some minor foxing.
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.