Gustave Le Gray

albumen print, the photographer's red facsimile signature stamp on the image, mounted, circa 1856

Acquired from a private French collection, 2002

By descent to the present owner

Eugenia Parry Janis, The Photography of Gustave Le Gray (Chicago, 1987), p. 83

Ken Jacobson, The Lovely Sea-View: A Study of the Marine Photographs Published by Gustave Le Gray, 1856-1858 (Petches Bridge, 2001), cover

Sylvie Aubenas, Gustave Le Gray 1820-1884 (Los Angeles, The J. Paul Getty Museum, 2002), cat. 122

Grading this matte-surface albumen print on a scale of 1 to 10 - a 10 being a print with rich dark brown tones and highlights that retain all of their original detail - this print rates an 8. The left and right edges of the image appear to be turning slightly lighter in tonality. This print is in generally very good to excellent condition. Upon close examination, the following are visible: scattered deposits of retouching, including 2 linear areas of retouching in the lower right quadrant; a few thin and shallow scratches, primarily near the left edge of the print; and some matte deposits in the sky area, possibly foxing. There are some scattered brown deposits on the mount, possibly foxing.
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.