Paris, Les Bouquinistes 

Antoine Blanchard painted this view of Paris, likely in the mid-20th century, using oils on canvas. Blanchard engaged with the traditional, almost academic, style of painting, yet the application of the medium influences the appearance of the painting. The texture is loose, with visible brushstrokes that create a sense of movement and atmosphere. The weight and viscosity of the paint allow Blanchard to capture the light and reflections on the wet Parisian streets. The processes involved in creating this painting – from stretching the canvas to mixing the paints and applying them with a brush – connect it to a long tradition of easel painting, a practice deeply embedded in European cultural history. The social context of this work is interesting too. Blanchard mass-produced his paintings for the tourist market, reflecting the commodification of Parisian culture. Despite this commercial aspect, his skills and techniques remain evident, blurring the boundaries between fine art and craft. Ultimately, considering the materials, processes, and cultural context allows us to fully appreciate this artwork.