Arc de Triomph vanuit het Place du Carrousel, Parijs, Frankrijk c. 1870 - 1900

This photograph captures the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel in Paris with a frontal perspective, its monumental structure framed against the urban landscape. The monochromatic palette, typical of early photography, mutes the scene, lending a timeless quality. The composition centers on the arch, which commands attention through its symmetrical design and detailed relief carvings. The arch’s form invites us to consider how architectural structures embody power and historical narrative, functioning as both a physical passage and a symbolic gateway. This photograph’s structural clarity echoes classical ideals, yet the muted tones also introduce a sense of distance. The use of photography here highlights its capacity to capture and mediate our experience of space and history, prompting ongoing reflection.