Paul Outerbridge, Jr.

1930 (Singular Aesthetic, pl. 272; Photographs, p. 88; Taschen, p. 123)

This print, of one of Outerbridge's most important nude studies, is on heavy double-weight paper with a matte surface. It shares with other prints of this image (handled by Sotheby's in Sale 6073, Lot 246; and Sale 7450, Lot 159) a distinctive tonality which incorporates creamy yellow highlights and complex, deep gray/green dark tones. While Outerbridge is often, and justifiably, heralded as a master of the platinum and color carbro processes, he was equally skilled, and equally experimental, in the more conventional gelatin-silver-print process. In this photograph, Outerbridge has created a captivating image which demonstrates his abilities as a printer as well as his keen understanding of how the print's final tonality would affect its impact. The print has recently undergone conservation, primarily to remove silvering and reduce some old creasing in the lower portion of the print and in the upper left corner. The conservation treatment was successful, resulting in a photograph with a fine overall appearance.
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 Arm, one of the most sensual and beautiful of Paul Outerbridge's nudes, combines the abstraction of his early still lifes with the tactile qualities of his later carbro prints.  Although not a color photograph, The Arm captures the nuances of the model's flesh and its delicate texture perfectly.  The subtlely of the print offered here is remarkable, and is difficult to reproduce in adequate fashion. 

Only two prints of this image have appeared at auction in the past two decades, both in these rooms: one offered in 1990 (Sale 6073, Lot 246), and one in 2000 (Sale 7450, Lot 159).