c1851. Salt paper print, annotated “176” in pencil and photographer’s stamped signature on backing below image, 27.5 x 21cm. Slight soiling to lower edge.

In 1851 the Commission des Monuments Historiques chose Baldus and four others to form the Mission Héliographique to document the architectural heritage of France. This photograph was most likely part of that project.

Initially trained as a painter, Baldus took up photography and soon after became a founding member of the Société Héliographique in 1851, and the Société Française de Photographie in 1857. Highly respected for his photography, Baldus received the Cross of the Legion of Honor in 1860. Ref: NGA (Washington DC). ref. Item #CL191-3

Price (AUD): $3300