Lewis W. Hine

the photographer's 'Interpretive Photography, Hastings-on-Hudson, New York' studio stamp and with numbers '162' and '#21' in pencil on the reverse, framed, an Irving Galleries label on the reverse, 1908, possibly printed in the 1910s or 1920s; accompanied by a typed caption card with the National Child Labor Committee stamp

Irving Galleries, Palm Beach

In general, this photograph is in very good condition. This photograph is on double-weight paper with a glossy surface. The print is trimmed to the image, and there is occasional chipping along the edges. The corners are bumped. In raking light, the following are visible: faint rust-colored soiling in the upper and lower corners; a few deposits of original retouching; and a small soft crease that does not break the emulsion in the lower right quadrant. These issues are consistent with a print of this age, possibly intended for exhibition/publication purposes. There are yellowed adhesive remnants on the reverse, indicating that this print was previously affixed to a mount. The following information is typed on the accompanying caption card: 'BOY BRAKING ON MOTOR TRAIN IN COAL MINE WITH A LIVE WIRE OVERHEAD NO HIGHER THAN A MAN'S HEAD. HE WORKS TEN HOURS A DAY;' 'Coal Mines N-162;' 'Gray, West Va. September 1908;' and 'Photo-Study by Lewis W. Hine.' It is numbered '379' and '21' in an unidentified hand in pencil. Yellowed adhesive remnants on the reverse of the card indicate that it was likely previously affixed to the reverse of the photograph.
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.