Arc de Triomphe, Parijs 1887 - 1900

This photograph by an unknown photographer captures the Arc de Triomphe in Paris during the 19th century. The Arc de Triomphe was commissioned in 1806 by Napoleon after his victory at Austerlitz, as a monument to French military achievements. The architecture is a classical style, with ornate sculptures referencing ancient Roman triumphal arches. Looking at this image, we see a monument intended to convey power and imperial glory. Paris itself was undergoing massive reconstruction at this time, designed to reflect and reinforce Napoleon's authority. The photograph is more than just a record; it’s a cultural artifact. It tells us about how the French state represented itself through architecture and how photography was used to disseminate these images. Examining archives and historical documents will give insights into the social and political context that shaped its construction. The Arc de Triomphe reflects the ambitions of an era.