Peter Beard

a unique oversized object, signed, titled, dated, and annotated by the photographer and the artists E. Mwangi and Kuria in ink and collaged and illustrated extensively with paint, watercolor, and inks on the image and in the margin, framed, a Fahey/Klein Gallery, Los Angeles, label on the reverse, 1964-66, printed in 2004

This impressive oversized photograph has not been viewed out of its frame. It appears, however, to be in generally excellent condition. The edges of the print are unevenly trimmed by the photographer and the print is floated in its frame. There is a profusion of colorful illustration and collaged elements in the wide margins. The pigment colors are saturated, with no apparent fading. There are numerous black-and-white and color photographic and reprographic images, of Mike Tyson, Peter Beard, a nude model, fish, a butterfly, a turtle, and a man with umbrella. Other collaged elements include a 15 cent ‘Kenya, Uganda, Tanganyika’ postage stamp and ephemera from ‘Nacet’ razor blades. There are a few stray deposits of ink on the image. The photograph is inscribed on the image: ‘Shall the companions make a banquet of him? Shall they part him among the merchants? Canst thou fill his skin with barbed irons? Lay thine hand upon him or his head with spears? Remember the battle do no more. . . None is so fierce that dare stir him up. . . Who can open the doors of his face? His teeth are terrible round about. His scales are his Pride shut up together as with a close seal. By his sneesings [sic] a light doth shine, and his eyes are like the Eyelids of the Morning (Job 41).’
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.