Hiroshi Sugimoto

Collection Claude Berri, Paris
Thence by descent to the present owner

Colour: The colours in the catalogue illustration are fairly accurate although the overall tonality is lighter and there are more nuances to the greys in the original. Condition: This work is in very good condition. Extremely close inspection reveals two minute and unobtrusive irregularities to the print on the lower left quadrant, which are likely to be original and in keeping with the artist's working process.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

"My first view of the ocean came as an awakening. Of course I must have seen the ocean before, but this is my earliest and most vivid recollection of it. I spied it from a Tokaido Line train, the seascape passing from left to right. It must have been autumn, because the sky had such vast, eye-opening clarity. We were riding high on a cliff, and the sea flickered far below like frames of a motion picture, only to disappear suddenly behind the rocks. The horizon line where the azure sea met the brilliant sky was razor sharp, like a samurai sword's blade. Captivated by this startling yet oddly familiar scene, I felt I was gazing on a primordial landscape. Perhaps it is strange that a child should have prelife memories, much less words to express them. The experience left an indelible mark on me. Today, the cliff-top train tracks are long gone, and a newer, safer line now bores-in both senses-a long, dark tunnel."

HIROSHI SUGIMOTO
quoted in Exh. Cat., Tokyo, Mori Art Museum, Hiroshi Sugimoto, 2010