Le Neptune, Place Saint-Pierre à Montmartre 23 - 1870

Curator: Here we have Nadar’s “Le Neptune, Place Saint-Pierre à Montmartre,” taken in 1870. It's an albumen print. Quite evocative, isn’t it? Editor: Hauntingly beautiful. It feels dreamlike, the city reduced to a blurry backdrop, dwarfed by that imposing, almost surreal, balloon. Like a giant eye, staring down at us, or maybe a teardrop hovering over the city. Curator: The balloon itself, “Le Neptune,” was employed for communication during the Siege of Paris. Nadar, always the innovator, used his photography to serve the Republic. Consider the political implications – the balloon as a symbol of hope, carrying messages beyond the Prussian lines. Editor: I'm also struck by the contrast between the aerial ambitions and the grounded reality depicted with those humble tents in the foreground. It's like a metaphor for aspirations clashing against harsh realities. Curator: Precisely. This image captures the spirit of resilience amidst immense hardship. Photography, in this context, becomes an act of resistance, documenting not just the city but also the citizens' determination. Editor: It almost feels voyeuristic in a way too, like we're looking down on them as something tragic is about to occur. The grainy detail only adds to this atmosphere. It has this incredible weight to it despite showing a beautiful landscape. Curator: And remember the context, 1870, France was undergoing enormous societal upheaval. It underscores Nadar’s commitment to social progress, demonstrating his capacity to capture nuanced layers within a single image. He captured it from multiple points of view. His aerial shots were quite interesting! Editor: Looking at it again I'm almost certain I can hear it squeak a little, or even that cold Parisian wind. This single picture is really powerful stuff! Curator: Indeed. It pushes us to consider the multifaceted role of photography – not just as documentation, but as a profound commentary on societal circumstances, the human spirit, and a collective vision for a brighter future. Editor: Makes you think about what those blurry faces down there would think of the world now, don't you think? A powerful picture!