Brassaï

ferrotyped, signed, dated, annotated, and with reduction notations in pencil and red crayon and the photographer's '81, Rue du Faub. St. Jacques, Paris-XIV Port-Royal 23-41' studio stamp on the reverse, 1931, probably printed in the 1950s or early 1960s (Brassaï: The Monograph, p. 87, variant cropping)

As is typical of ferrotyped prints, superficial surface scratches and occasional pitting are visible. In high raking light, a number of sharp handling creases that appear to break the emulsion are visible overall, most notably along the lower right edge. Fingerprints, occasional deposits of original retouching, and and impressions from writing on the reverse of the print are also visible in raking light. These issues are characteristic of the majority of Brassai's pre-1970s prints. This print is trimmed to the image. There are several tiny losses of emulsion along the upper edge and the tips of the corners are creased. The reverse of the print is lightly soiled, and there is a strip of tape running the length of the right edge. On the reverse of the print, 'Couple en 1931' is written by the photographer in pencil. Also on the reverse are the following in an unidentified hand in pencil, unless otherwise noted: 'page 70 pl 18'; '1227/23' [crossed out]; '71402/1'; Disque v 20' [circled]; '170x125' [crossed our in red crayon]; '19' [in red crayon]; '195x141' [in red ink]; and 'Disque Realites N. 767' [in ink]. When examined under ultraviolet light, this print appears to fluoresce faintly.
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.