A typical example of Durandelle's photographic work. This little imaginative statue comes from an unknown ancient building. Possibly photographed during the renovation of the abbey of Mont Saint-Michel (1874-8). A straight and very nice composition. A good example of Durandelle's direct approach towards his subjects.

Louis-Emile Durandelle (1839-1917) was in partnership with Delmaet in Paris. In 1862 his partner died. Delmaet's wife later married Durandelle and likely continued to work in the partnership. The firm specialized in construction photographs. [Alex Novak: 19th-Century French Master Photographers, Life into Art, 2017]
Durandelle became especially famous for the photos he took of the new opera in Paris.

Large albumen print in good condition. Blind stamp of the photographer in the original mount under the print. Addressed 4, rue du Faubourg-Montmartre, Paris (His address since 1874).

albumen print ca. 28,1 x 20,3 cm
mount ca. 45 x 35,5 cm