Aaron Siskind

flush-mounted to masonite, framed, 1948 (Vintage Works 1930-1960, p. 32; Aaron Siskind 100, unpaginated)

Estate of the photographer

Bruce Silverstein Gallery, New York

New York, Bruce Silverstein Gallery, Aaron Siskind: Transformation, June - August 2001

This nuanced and tonally rich early print is in overall excellent condition. The mounting style - on Masonite - is typical of Siskind's presenation for early 1950s exhibitions with Egan Gallery. Upon very close inspection, there are several scattered impressions overall, primarily visible in raking light. Several deposits of original retouching can be seen under raking light. There are a few creases along the lower edge that do not appear to break the emulsion and likely occurred prior to or during the mounting process. There is minor edge chipping. Adhesive remnants on the reverse of the Masonite mount suggest that wood hanging brackets were previously affixed. This was standard presentation for Siskind's exhibition prints from the period, which were designed to hang unframed, as objects set apart from the wall. When examined under ultraviolet light, this print does not appear to fluoresce.
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.

This style of presentation, in which the photograph is flush-mounted to Masonite and designed to be displayed unglazed, was used by Siskind in the late 1940s and early 1950s.