Edouard-Denis Baldus

albumen print, numbered 'Nº 63' in the negative, mounted, the photographer's facsimile signature stamp (Daniel 6) and with title and '10' in pencil on the mount, framed, circa 1860

Charles Isaacs Photographs, Inc., New York, 1993

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 10. This highly detailed print has a rich, chocolate-eggplant tonality and clean, bright, creamy highlights. There is no apparent fading and this print retains an exceptional level of detail, both in the architecture of the church and in the figures in the foreground. The photograph is in generally excellent condition. There is an isolated area of faint silvering and lighter tonality in the lower left corner. Upon very close examination in high raking light, tiny matte deposits (likely original retouching) and superficial surface scuffs and scratches that do not appear to break the emulsion are visible overall. There is faint glue staining along the upper left edge of the print. A few very small, light-rust-colored areas (likely foxing) are visible in the upper sky-area and on the mount. The photograph is mounted to large flexible card that is lightly soiled and age-darkened, particularly at the periphery. A thin, linear abrasion running the length of the left edge of the mount suggests that this print may previously have been bound in an album. The reverse of the mount is soiled.
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.