Rue des Chantres, Paris 1862

Charles Meryon's 1862 etching, "Rue des Chantres, Paris", captures the atmosphere of a narrow Parisian alleyway. The towering spire of a church dominates the composition, seen through the perspective of the street, which is lined with tall, closely spaced buildings. Meryon's meticulous detail highlights the textures of the stone walls and the subtle play of light and shadow, emphasizing the city's architectural beauty and the contrast between its grandeur and the everyday life experienced in its alleyways. This artwork, now housed at The Art Institute of Chicago, is a striking example of Meryon's renowned skill as a printmaker and his fascination with the architectural landscape of Paris.