Paul Strand 1890-1976

the photographer's numerical and printing notations in pencil or crayon on the reverse, flush-mounted to paper, numbered '#8' in an unidentified hand in pencil on the reverse, 1930, printed in the late 1950s or early 1960s (Paul Strand in New Mexico, fig. 18; Greenough, pl. 82)

The photographer to Dr. Erhard Frommhold, Verlag der Kunst, Dresden

Acquired by the present owners from the above, 2006

This print, on Kodak Illustrator's Special paper and with a 1/16-inch white margin, is in generally excellent condition. As is typical of Strand's work of the period, the print's surface sheen is the result of a coating, possibly wax or varnish, that Strand favored in order to enhance the details of the image. The presentation--the fact that it is an enlargement print from a 4-by 5-inch negative, and the use of the paper--is typical of prints made in the 1950s and early 1960s. When examined in raking light, tiny deposits of original retouching are visible on the surface of the print, predominately in the upper portion. In the upper right quadrant, there is a pinpoint indentation that appears to break the emulsion. This is visible only under the closest scrutiny. The reverse of the print has a number of adhesive and paper tape remains. The notations in the reverse--'Ill.,' 'F11,' '29,' and 'Amidol'--indicates that this print was printed on Kodak Illustrator's Special paper using an F-11 aperture with a 29-second exposure using Amidol as a developer, according to the photographer's printing notations on the back of the print and visible through the flush-mount.
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.