Charles Nègre

salt print, signed and titled in the negative, the number ‘45’ (circled) in pencil on the reverse, 1852

Robert Hershkowitz, Ltd., Sussex, 1998

This exemplary salt print has rich warm tonality throughout, with none of the edge-fading frequently seen in prints from the early era of paper photography. Negre has signed the print 'C. Negre' and titled it in tight cursive in the lower left corner of the image. The print is trimmed directly to the image, and appears never to have been mounted. The print is on very thin paper. There is some very sporadic and inconsequential wear on the edges, and two tiny indentations on the lower edge, but generally the print is in excellent condition. When examined closely, a small area of warm-toned discoloration can be seen directly to the left of the Chateau, as well as very slightly on the extreme edges. The reverse shows a few very light warm-toned areas of discoloration. The circled number "45" is written in pencil in the lower right corner of the reverse.
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.