La Madeleine Boulevard des Capucines 

Antoine Blanchard captures the essence of Parisian life in La Madeleine Boulevard des Capucines, a scene rendered with oil on canvas. Born in 1910, Blanchard's work often romanticizes Paris, reflecting a longing for a past era. The painting evokes a sense of nostalgia, presenting a bustling street scene with horse-drawn carriages and elegantly dressed figures. These elements offer a glimpse into the city's historical identity, yet also invite questions about whose stories are being told and remembered. The artist focuses on the architecture and social life of Paris. Blanchard’s Paris is noticeably devoid of references to the working class, immigrants, or people of color who also inhabited and shaped the city. This absence encourages a discussion about the selective nature of memory and representation. This depiction of Paris, while beautiful, prompts a deeper consideration of the city's complex history. Blanchard’s work invites us to reflect on the stories that are told and those that are often overlooked, encouraging us to question whose experiences are validated through art and historical narratives.