Berenice Abbott

numbered '111' in the negative, the photographer's '50 commerce st., new york city' studio and Federal Art Project 'Changing New York' and 'Duplicate' stamps, with title, date, and annotations in ink, on the reverse, framed, 1936

Sotheby's New York, 30 March 2009, Sale 8533, Lot 55

This early, slightly warm-toned print, on double-weight paper with a faint surface sheen and pebbled texture, is in generally excellent condition. Near the lower edge of the image are 2 pinpoint-sized losses of emulsion. There is a tiny white deposit of indeterminate nature at the upper right corner. In raking light, faint silvering is visible at the periphery of the print. The margin edges and corner tips are slightly rubbed and intermittently chipped. There are 3 small clamp impressions from processing along the edges. None of these minor issues affects the overall fine appearance of the print. The reverse of the print is appropriately age-darkened at its periphery. On the reverse of the print, the following information is written in ink: '"El" 2nd and 3rd Avenue Lines: Bowery and Division Street, Manhattan Neg - 111 Code II A - 2 f 2 4/24/36'
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.