Five architectural studies from 'Le Nouvel Opéra de Paris - Sculpture Ornementale', c. 1875

Architectural photographer Durandelle documented the construction of the Paris Opera in Charles Garnier's publication, Le Nouvel Opéra de Paris (1875-1881), one of the most splendid photographic presentations of 19th Century architecture. In the portfolio dedicated to ornamental sculpture, fragments of elaborate lintels, cornices, and column capitals are isolated from the building's context and assume a striking quality. The Paris Opera's construction, which began in 1861, employed over 90 painters and sculptors for its lavish decorative program, and was completed in 1875. Durandelle's documentation of the enterprise was a landmark in the discipline of architectural photography.