Antique c. 1880s Large-Format Architectural Photograph — Paris, France Compagnie du Chemin de Fer d'Orléans (Service Central)
An exceptional, original late 19th-century large-format architectural study capturing the grand neoclassical carriage entrance (porte cochère) of the central headquarters for the historic Compagnie du chemin de fer de Paris à Orléans (PO).
Key Visual Details: • Carved Entablature: Prominently inscribed "COMPAGNIE DU CHEMIN DE FER D'ORLEANS / SERVICE CENTRAL". • Carved Keystone Medallion: High-relief allegorical cartouche flanked by cornucopias and floral swags. • Period Hardware & Ironwork: Intricate wrought-iron transom grillwork, heavy paneled wood doors with ornate pulls, cast stone wheel-guard (chasse-roue), and an ornate swan-neck gas street lantern. • Secondary Signage: Inner portal indicates "VOYAGEURS – MESSAGERIE" (Passenger & Express Parcel Services); upper-left shows adjacent period commercial signage ("PHOTOGRAPHIE...").
Specifications & Condition: • Dimensions: 10⅝" × 14⅛" (approx. 27 cm × 36 cm). • Period: Circa 1875–1895 (Belle Époque / Second Empire era). • Verso: Inscribed in period pencil: "Entrance to Interior Court / Private Residence Paris –" (early English traveler/collector notation). • Condition: Excellent antique condition. Strong tonality, sharp contrast, and distinct architectural relief. Minor age-appropriate edge wear and subtle surface handling consistent with late 19th-century paper prints. Clean reverse with minor scattered spotting. Please inspect all photos for exact condition.
Carefully packed flat between heavy-duty rigid corrugated boards and shipped fully insured with tracking.
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