Helen Levitt

a group of 3 photographs, 2 mounted, each signed and 2 dated and annotated in pencil on the reverse, each framed, 1939 (A Way of Seeing, pl. 42 and Levitt, pl. 28, variants) (3)

Phillips de Pury New York, The Joshua P. Smith Collection of Photographs, 16 October 2003, Sale 040303, Lot 99

These early prints, on double-weight paper with a slight surface sheen, are in generally very good to excellent condition. Children embracing - The print edges are lightly rubbed, with miniscule losses of emulsion at the periphery. A small portion of each of the print's corners is white, likely due to the way the photographic paper was held in place during the printing process. There are light red deposits, likely from crayon, in the unexposed corners. The reverse of the print is signed, dated, and annotated 'N. Y. C.' in pencil. The following numerical notations are also penciled on the reverse: 'v 10,' '22' (boxed), and 'or 26.' Sitting on the stoop - In raking light, hairline scratches and tiny impressions not breaking the emulsion are visible overall. This photograph is on a cream-colored board that has been trimmed. The reverse of the mount is signed, dated, and annotated 'N. Y.' in pencil. The mount corners are bumped. Woman with dog - The print edges are lightly rubbed, with tiny losses or folds of the emulsion at the periphery. This photograph is on a thin mount that has been trimmed unevenly. In raking light, scattered tiny deposits of original retouching are visible overall. The mount is somewhat bowed, and there is slight waviness in the print near its upper edge. The reverse of the mount is signed in pencil. Also on the reverse of the mount is a small piece of cellophane tape. When examined under ultraviolet light, none of these prints appears to fluoresce.
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.