étienne Carjat Collection
Étienne Carjat: Capturing the Icons of his Time Étienne Carjat, a renowned French photographer of the 19th century
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Étienne Carjat: Capturing the Icons of his Time Étienne Carjat, a renowned French photographer of the 19th century, had an exceptional talent for capturing the essence and spirit of his subjects. His lens immortalized some of the most influential figures in art, literature, politics, and society during his time. One such subject was Sarah Bernhardt, a legendary actress known for her captivating performances on stage. In this black and white photograph taken around 1872, Carjat beautifully portrays Bernhardt as Marie de Neubourg in Victor Hugo's play Ruy Blas. Her expressive eyes convey both vulnerability and strength. Carjat also photographed Charles Baudelaire, the celebrated poet whose works explored themes of beauty and decadence. In another portrait by Carjat from 1865, Baudelaire's intense gaze reveals a complex soul immersed in contemplation. Another notable figure captured by Carjat's lens was Arthur Rimbaud at just seventeen years old. The colored photo taken in 1871 showcases Rimbaud's youthful features with an air of mystery surrounding him—a glimpse into the enigmatic mind that would revolutionize poetry. During the tumultuous Paris Commune of 1871, Carjat documented key members involved in this revolutionary movement. Auguste Jean Marie Vermorel stands tall yet solemnly in one photograph while Raoul Rigault exudes authority as chief of police prefecture in another image—both portraits reflecting their roles within this historic event. Jean Baptiste Milliere and Louis Charles Delescluze were two other individuals associated with the Paris Commune who found themselves before Carjat's camera lens. These photographs capture their determination to fight for their beliefs amidst chaos—an indomitable spirit etched onto film forever. Carjat wasn't limited to capturing political figures; he also photographed prominent artists like Gioachino Antonio Rossini, the Italian composer whose music still enchants audiences today.