Paris. - La Rue de la Paix 1912

Léon & Lévy's small coloured photograph shows a hectic Rue de la Paix. Look at the sepia tones gently enlivened by touches of red and green - it looks like a painting! Imagine the artist holding the camera, patiently waiting to capture the hustle and bustle of Parisian life. Think about the choice of angle, gazing down the street with the rooftops fading into the distance, and the muted shades, reminiscent of old postcards. The surface of the print is smooth, inviting a close look to appreciate the details. The shadows and highlights create depth, drawing our eyes into the scene. The presence of the photographer, their intention to capture and share a slice of life, reminds me that art is a form of communication. This photograph is like a dialogue with painters like Manet and Caillebotte, who also found inspiration in the streets of Paris. It reminds us of the ongoing exchange of ideas and visions that fuels artistic creation.