Helen Levitt

mounted, signed and with annotations in pencil on the reverse, overmatted, circa 1940 (Levitt, p. 2 and pl. 30)

Mounted on buff-colored board, this early print, on smooth paper with a slight surface sheen, is in generally very good condition. Visible upon close examination in raking light are the following: near the upper and left edges of the image, 2 small raised creases that likely occurred during the dry-mounting process; a few faint surface scuffs; and various tiny deposits of original retouching. The overmat covers a small border of the image on all sides. The overmat and mount are age-appropriately darkened, primarily at the periphery. Near the upper edge of the overmat, there is an area of light soiling. On the reverse of the mount there are light fingerprints from handling. The following notations are written in an unidentified hand, possibly by a framer, in pencil: 'Newhall' and '13½ x 16.' This print does not appear to glow when examined under ultra-violet light.
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.

Helen Levitt was one of many young photographers whose work was reviewed by Beaumont Newhall in his capacity as photographs curator at The Museum of Modern Art.  In 1943, Nancy Newhall organized the first Museum of Modern Art exhibition of Levitt's work, Helen Levitt: Photographs of Children.