St. Etienne-du-mont, Paris, from Eaux-fortes Sur Paris (etchings of Paris) 1852

Charles Meryon created this etching of St. Etienne-du-Mont in Paris as part of his series “Eaux-fortes sur Paris.” These etchings focused on the architecture of the city. But Meryon didn’t just show buildings, he explored how they were used, how they looked from certain angles, and how they existed in the lives of Parisians. Made in 19th century France, this image uses dense hatching to create form. It shows the church’s facade squeezed between other buildings, demonstrating the church's close integration with the city. We see ordinary people occupying the space in front of the church, using it in their daily routines. Meryon’s work often focused on the overlooked corners of Paris, capturing a sense of urban life that wasn't always seen in the grand paintings of the time. To truly appreciate Meryon's work, one has to consider his biography and the historical context of Paris in the 1850s. His vision of Paris was unique, capturing the city's essence.