Henri Gaudier-Brzeska

Given as part of H.S. Ede's A Life of Gaudier-Brzeska by Ede to 'Ted' (probably Edward McKnight Kauffer) and thence gifted to the present owner

The left edge of the sheet is perforated. There is a crease across the centre where it has evidently been folded. There is a small tear in the upper left-hand corner where the paper is also worn. There is a larger tear in the upper right-hand corner visible in the catalogue. It has been adhered in the upper corners to a larger sheet of wove paper. There are some minor stains and markings across the surface and the sheet is discoloured. Otherwise in good original condition. The sheet to which it has been attached is inscribed A LIFE OF GAUDIER-BRZESKA across the top and the right hand edge is fragmented.
"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."

The first ten copies of H.S. Ede's A Life of Gaudier-Brzeska were signed by the author and contained an original signed drawing by Henri Gaudier. A special copy, edition no.41, from which lots 1 and 2 have been taken, contained a number of original drawings and a letter dedicated to 'Ted' in which Ede writes, 'I send this book as a token of my constant appreciation. I would wish it so much better since its conception was due to your enthusiasm and its delivery to your so practical help.' Ted is most probably Edward McKnight Kauffer who Ede acknowledges in the preface of the book for providing Ede with Sophie Brzeska's letters and Gaudier-Brzeska's works. 

The present work is strongly reminiscent of Jacob Epstein's seminal Rock Drill, 1913-1915.