A Metal Street Lamp, Boulevard St. Martin 1875 - 1885

This drawing of a metal street lamp on Boulevard St. Martin was made by Richardson Ellson & Co. The drawing presents a seemingly straightforward image of urban infrastructure. However, it invites us to consider the social implications of street lighting in 19th-century Paris. As cities grew, so did the need for public services like lighting to ensure safety and commerce after dark. This lamp, with its functional design, reflects the modernization efforts of the time. The inscription notes the drawing's scale, a detail that speaks to the practical purposes of the design. Images like this offer a glimpse into the planning of urban spaces and the institutional role of engineering firms in shaping the modern city. To understand this image fully, we can consult municipal records, engineering journals, and social histories of Paris. Such sources reveal the complex interplay between technology, governance, and daily life. In this context, the artwork highlights the intersection of social need and institutional response.