Boulevard de la Madeleine, Winter 

Edouard Cortes painted this scene of the Boulevard de la Madeleine in winter, capturing the essence of Parisian life with oil on canvas. Note the prominent motif of the horse-drawn carriage amidst the snow-laden streets. The carriage, beyond its practical function, is a symbol laden with historical weight. Think back to the Roman Empire, where chariots signified triumph and power. That association evolved through the ages, resurfacing in the elaborate coaches of European royalty, emblems of status and dominion. But here, the carriage is accessible, part of the public sphere, suggesting a democratization of movement and status, yet still evoking a sense of nostalgia. The presence of the horse, a powerful symbol in mythology and folklore, further enriches the scene. It signifies strength, freedom, and vitality. In the collective memory, the horse is not just an animal, but a representation of primal forces, harnessed and directed by human will. Notice how the illumination from the shops casts a warm, inviting glow onto the snowy scene, drawing us into the heart of Parisian life. This invites the viewer into a space where the past is layered with the present.