La morgue, Paris (The Mortuary) 1854

Charles Meryon's 1854 etching, "La morgue, Paris (The Mortuary)," portrays the Parisian morgue, capturing the somber atmosphere of the building. The detailed depiction of the building, with its high walls and small windows, emphasizes the institution's austere nature. The etching also includes figures in the foreground, seemingly approaching the morgue, adding a poignant element of human drama to the scene. This work exemplifies Meryon's fascination with the architectural landscape of Paris, particularly its more neglected corners, and his mastery of etching techniques to convey both beauty and melancholy.