Gezicht op de Notre-Dame van Parijs before 1840

This lithograph of the Notre-Dame de Paris, was made by Thomas Shotter Boys during a time of significant urban transformation in Paris. The 19th century was marked by industrialization, population growth, and political upheaval which drastically altered the city's landscape and social dynamics. Boys’ representation of the Notre-Dame captures both the grandeur of the cathedral and the everyday life unfolding around it. The figures in the foreground, likely members of the burgeoning middle class, offer insight into the changing demographics and social stratification of Paris. The image presents a narrative about the intersection of architectural monumentality and human experience. The Notre-Dame, standing as a symbol of French history and religious power, contrasts with the commercial activities and diverse population of the city. This tension highlights the complex relationship between tradition and modernity that characterized 19th-century Paris. It is a reminder of how the city’s past and present coexist, shaping the identities and experiences of its inhabitants.