Notre Dame De Paris 1933

This black-and-white photograph of Notre Dame Cathedral was taken by Brassai, the pseudonym for Gyula Halász, a Hungarian-French photographer, sculptor, and filmmaker. Brassai made a name for himself capturing the essence of Paris, particularly its nocturnal character. As a migrant navigating the complexities of Parisian society in the interwar period, Brassai was drawn to documenting the city's hidden aspects, which he did by immersing himself in its nightlife. He explored the underbelly of Parisian culture, from brothels to back alleys, and he captured the raw, unvarnished lives of its inhabitants. With the cathedral as a backdrop, the glistening cobblestone streets and the soft glow of streetlights create a tableau that feels both intimate and imposing. Brassai used photography to explore themes of identity and belonging and laid bare the emotional and social dimensions of urban life. This photograph is a reminder of the ever-changing nature of cities and society.