About This Image

Size refers to the image that is showing.This photograph first appeared in a small auction in Brussels where the photographer was noted as Hippolyte Bayard. It has the beautiful blue color of the first daguerreotypes. The use of a large plate daguerreotype and the mastery of photographic chemistry are signs of the work of a professional or a talented amateur.Such expertise could indicate that the photographer came from Paris, where more accomplished practitioners could be found at that period.Bayard was given a commission from the Duc de Luyne's architect, Duban, to photograph the Duke's properties and restoration work on the famed Chateau de Blois. Included with the landscape plates of the Duke's property was a daguerreotype of Bayard's favorite subject, Georgina Benoist, directly tying these photographs to Bayard for the first time.Hippolyte Bayard moved to follow the restoration of the Chateau de Blois between 1843 and 1845 at the request of architect Duban, and to whom this was initially attributed. We would date this daguerreotype in the last year of that range. Bayard is considered one of the founders/discoverers of photography.This daguerreotype captured a moment when the facade of the castle already appears in its newly restored splendor, while the latest development work can also be seen. The news of the end of the initial construction spread to all lovers of fine arts in France, and the photographer here is certainly aware of a this major event. This image shows the prestigious and emblematic restoration, and shows the new work to protect a threatened architectural heritage.The plate was never cleaned. The old light abrasions on the surface, which are due to plate storage prior to mounting under glass, do not affect the beauty of the image. Presented with adequate lighting, the image is very bright and the details of the subject appear very precise.We must remember that over time, the destruction of daguerreotypes was massive. The unique nature of each daguerreotype image is particularly valuable now. Public collections retain only a few dozen of these great daguerreotypes and virtually none of this important architectural wonder. Only one other plate in this size is known of a slightly closer image of this view, and resides in the collection of the Bibliotheque Nationale in Paris.The Royal Château de Blois is located in the Loir-et-Cher département in the Loire Valley, in France. The residence of several French kings, it is also the place where Joan of Arc went in 1429 to be blessed by the Archbishop of Reims before departing with her army to drive the English from Orléans. Built in the middle of the town that it effectively controlled, the château of Blois comprises several buildings constructed from the 13th to the 17th century around the main courtyard.Its most famous piece of architecture is the magnificent spiral staircase in the François I wing. In 1841, under the direction of King Louis-Philippe, the Château de Blois was classified as an historic monument, and so became a favorite subject of early French photographers.

Most U.S. domestic Fed Ex ground shipping (Media Mail for books) is free of charge except for larger and heavier items, or unless the buyer wants express shipping (email us your requests for the latter). International shipping and insurance costs will be added to the price and must be paid for by the buyer. Pennsylvania buyers must pay appropriate local sales tax. International clients are responsible for their local customs duties and taxes, which will be charged by Fed Ex, which will contact the client prior to delivery.

Chateau de Blois (Rare Back View)
Hippolyte Bayard Chateau de Blois (Rare Back View)

Price $65,000

Main Image
Description

Ref.# 14868

Medium Daguerreotype (Full plate)

Mount in glass mount

Photo Date 1845c  Print Date 1845c

Dimensions 5-1/4 x 7-3/16 in. (134 x 184 mm)

Photo Country France

Photographer Country France

Contact

Alex Novak and Marthe Smith

Email info@vintageworks.net

Phone +1-215-518-6962

Company
Contemporary Works / Vintage Works, Ltd.



 

Share This

Share on facebookShare on twitterShare on linkedinShare on pinterestShare on tumblrShare via email