Edward Weston 1886-1958

annotated 'L' in an unidentified hand in pencil on the reverse, matted, 1925 (Conger 169; Form of the Nude, p. 44; Edward Weston Nudes, p. 41; Book of Nudes, pl. 1 and p. 79)

The photographer to Miriam Lerner, around 1925

Zeitlin & Ver Brugge Booksellers, Los Angeles, as agent

Acquired by Eric Read Aitkin, Yonkers, from the above, 1969

By descent to the present owner

This striking, warm-toned print, on paper with a matte-surface, is in very good condition. Silvering is evident in the darkest areas of the print, causing it to have a somewhat solarized appearance. Upon very close inspection, soft modulating areas of discoloration are visible in the lighter areas of the print, and more evident along the edges of the print. The bottom right and top left corners are lightly bumped, with minor creases. The top right corner has a few sharp handling creases that have caused breaks and minor losses of the emulsion. The bottom right corner has a partial fingerprint mark that appears to be from processing. The reverse of the print has a few scattered fingerprint soiling marks.
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.

Of the four nude studies of Miriam Lerner offered in this catalogue (see Lots 4, 6, and 187), the present image is the only one recorded in Amy Conger's Edward Weston: Photographs from the Collection of the Center for Creative Photography.  Conger locates prints of this image in three institutional collections: the J. Paul Getty Museum, Malibu; the Worchester, Massachusetts, Art Museum: and a Project Print in the collection of the University of California at Santa Cruz.  Another print of this image is known in a private collection.