Overstroomde straat met loopplanken in Parijs 1910 - 1911

This small photograph by G. Dangereux shows a flooded street in Paris, using a monochromatic palette that evokes a sense of timelessness. It's fascinating how the water dominates the scene; it's not just a backdrop but the main subject, reflecting the buildings and trees in a distorted, dreamlike way. The ripples and waves create these incredible textures, almost like brushstrokes in a painting, obscuring the hard edges of the city and blurring the distinction between reality and reflection. Look at the wooden planks creating a walkway, a practical intervention amidst the chaos. They stand out not just visually but conceptually, suggesting a human attempt to navigate and control this watery world. Dangereux reminds me a little of Atget in his capturing of everyday life in Paris, but with a twist of the surreal. Both share this deep engagement with their environment, each revealing different layers of beauty in the urban landscape. It’s a reminder that art is about seeing the world in unexpected ways.