Égouts De Paris 1861

"Égouts De Paris" (1861) by Félix Nadar is a pioneering example of early photography. The image captures the stark reality of the Parisian sewer system, a place typically hidden from view. Nadar, a renowned photographer and journalist, used his skills to shed light on the often-overlooked infrastructure of the city. The photograph's dramatic composition, with the tunnel receding into darkness, creates a sense of mystery and intrigue, highlighting the unseen world beneath the bustling streets of Paris. This image, along with others in his series, contributed significantly to the development of documentary photography and its ability to expose social realities.