Gezicht op de Place Pigalle in Parijs 1878

Félix Hilaire Buhot created this print, "View of the Place Pigalle in Paris," in the late 19th century, inviting us into the bustling heart of Parisian life. Buhot was part of a movement exploring modern urban life, which had a focus on capturing fleeting moments. In this print, the Place Pigalle comes alive. The scene, filled with people, carriages, and the architectural bones of Paris, offers a window into the city's social dynamics. The figures are diverse – some appear to be bourgeois, enjoying the public space, while others seem to be working-class, contributing to the city's vibrant economy. What is so fascinating is how the artist’s hand renders class distinctions visible. Buhot’s Place Pigalle exists at the intersection of progress and tradition, echoing the complexities of identity. While celebrating the dynamism of city life, it also reveals the underlying social structures. Through Buhot’s eyes, we contemplate the city as a landscape of encounters.