Trianon, Pavillon Français 1923 - 1924

Eugène Atget made this albumen silver print of the Pavillon Français in the Trianon grounds at Versailles, France. Atget sought to document all aspects of French culture. Here, the artist presents a carefully constructed image that encourages us to reflect on the social and institutional history of the location. Atget made thousands of photographs of Paris and its surroundings, often focusing on architecture and urban life. His work provides a fascinating glimpse into the social and cultural landscape of France at the turn of the 20th century. The Pavillon Français, with its classical architectural style, represents the opulence of the French monarchy. Built during the reign of Louis XV, it was a place for entertainment and leisure. Atget's choice to photograph it invites us to consider the historical context of such spaces and their role in shaping French identity. To fully understand Atget's work, we can explore archives, historical records, and critical analyses. Through research, we uncover the layers of meaning embedded in this photograph.