Édouard Baldus

albumen print, signed, numbered 'N.32,' and annotated 'Amiens' in the negative, mounted, the photographer's facsimile signature stamp (Daniel 5) and with annotations in pencil on the mount, 1855 (Daniel, pl. 32, variant)

Grading this albumen print on a scale of 1 to 10--a 10 being an albumen print with deep brown dark tones and highlights that retain all of their original detail--this print rates a 7. This print is in generally good to very good condition. There is good retention of details and saturation in the central portion of the image, but fading is evident at the side edges of the print and the highlights have become somewhat warm. Upon close examination, a one-inch deposit of retouching is visible in the lower central portion of the image. Scattered faint foxing and light soiling is visible in the sky area. There are several tears at the edges of the mount. The mount corners are creased, and there are small losses to the lower mount corners. There is a small hole in the right mount edge. Soiling and light foxing is visible overall on the front and reverse of the mount.
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.