Robert Frank

dated '1955' and signed and dated '1973' in ink and with numerical notations in pencil on the reverse, framed, a Bloom Collection label on the reverse, 1956, printed in the early 1970s

Hamburg Kennedy Photographs + Projects, New York, 2004

The Americans, no. 70

Sarah Greenough, Looking In: Robert Frank's The Americans, pp. 295, 479 and 481, and Contact no. 70

Tod Papageorge, Walker Evans and Robert Frank: An Essay on Influence, p. 37

Robert Frank: Story Lines, frontispiece 5

Anne E. Havinga, Karen E. Haas, and Nancy Keeler, MFA Highlights Photography, p. 82

This photograph shows the full negative, with the black negative edges visible. It is on semi-glossy, heavy double-weight paper, and is in generally excellent condition. In very high raking light, a few faint surface scuffs and tiny deposits (possibly original retouching) are barely visible. There is very minor soiling and light wear to the margins. The tips of the margin corners are bumped, with the top paper-ply folded back at the tips of the lower corners. On the reverse of the print, '1955' and 'Robert Frank. 1973' are written by Frank in ink. Also on the reverse are the following in an unidentified hand in pencil: '1649F.'; 'PHO190'; and 'RF. A.Z. 070.4.' Along the upper edge on the reverse are 3 small hinge remnants and a small abrasion. There is minor soiling from handling. When examined under ultraviolet light, this print appears to fluoresce. It is believed that only 3 other prints of this image have previously been offered at auction.
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.