Irving Penn (b. 1917)

Vintage silver prints. Each with the photographer's stamp on the reverse and numbered in pencil in an unknown hand.

In very good condition overall. The illustrated print has three slight cracks at the lower left corner, all corners slightly bumped. All three prints with traces of age on corners and edges.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Professor L. Fritz Gruber (1908–2005) was the guiding spirit of the photography scene in West Germany in the second half of the 20^th century. As the founder of the German Photographic Society and the organiser of numerous exhibitions in his home town of Cologne, Gruber's importance should not be underestimated. He became a close friend to many of the great masters of photography. Since 1977 his important collection has been housed in the Museum Ludwig in Cologne.