Ruth Orkin

a sequence of 6 photographs, each signed, titled, dated, and annotated in pencil on the reverse, framed together, 1947, probably printed in the 1960s or early 1970s (LIFE, 26 November 1951, pp. 68-9; Orkin, pp. 32-3) (6)

This very attractive series of prints, slightly warm and with a range of gray tones, are on double-weight paper with a surface sheen. They are in generally excellent condition. The right edges of prints #3, #4, and #5 are slightly rubbed. When examined in raking light, faint silvering is visible on each print.
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.
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Ruth Orkin, like Robert Frank, entered LIFE magazine’s Young Photographers Contest in the fall of 1951.  She was awarded First Honorable Mention in the 'Story Division' for her Jimmy the Storyteller sequence. LIFE published the photographs in its 26 November issue, under the title, 'Jimmy Tells About Kitty and The King.' 

'Jimmy Hendon is the hero of these pictures, but only by accident.  Jimmy has a cute kid sister whom Ruth Orkin was looking for on Horatio Street in New York, hoping to make a few portrait shots.  Instead, Miss Orkin spotted Jimmy and his pals fighting in the gutter. They soon made peace, and one of them said, "Come on, Jimmy, give us a movie."  So Jimmy told them about Kitty, a fancy costume movie with Paulette Goddard playing a model to painter Thomas Gainsborough, and a lot of fights and crazy goings-on.’

In 1947 Orkin took prints of Jimmy the Storyteller to The Museum of Modern Art.  A few days later, she received a note from curator Edward Steichen asking to see more of her photographs.  From that time, Orkin's work was regularly included in group exhibitions at the Museum.