Berenice Abbott

the photographer's Federal Art Project 'Changing New York' and caption stamps, with title, date, and annotations in ink, on the reverse, 1937 (Yochelson, Middle West Side, pl. 29)

This early contact print, on smooth, warm-toned, double-weight paper with a faint sheen, is in generally very good condition. Light soiling is visible in the sky area. The following are visible upon very close examination: several small horizontal creases that appear to break the emulsion and a pen-point-sized black deposit of indeterminate nature near the upper left edge; a small graphite scribble below the 'Canadian' sign; a 1/2-inch faint impression in the center of the statue; and a few deposits of original retouching. The black margin edges are lightly worn, the corners are rounded, and there is a small loss to the tip of the upper right margin corner. The reverse of the print is appropriately age-darkened and lightly soiled. The 'Changing New York' caption stamp on the reverse is annotated in ink with the following information: Title: 'Father Duffy' Place: 'Times Square, Manhattan' Date: 'April 14, 1937' Neg. # '255' Code: 'I. B'
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.