Helen Levitt

signed, dated, and annotated 'N. Y.' in pencil on the reverse, framed, circa 1942, probably printed in the 1950s (A Way of Seeing, pl. 54; Levitt, pl. 7)

Phillips de Pury New York, The Joshua P. Smith Collection of Photographs, 16 October 2003, Sale 040303, Lot 103

This print, on double-weight paper with a slight surface sheen that has been trimmed to the image, is in generally excellent condition. The corners are bumped, and there are a few miniscule losses of emulsion along the edges. In high raking light, a few tiny impressions not breaking the emulsion are visible overall. Near the sitter's shoulder, there is a small, thin black line in the negative that has not been retouched. The reverse of the print is textured, and there is a small abrasion to the top paper-ply, indicating that this print was likely removed from a mount. '#5' is written in pencil on the reverse. When examined under ultraviolet light, this print appear to fluoresce very slightly.
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.