Eugène Atget

I can't recall the first time I saw a photo by Eugène Atget, but all I know is that his work is remarkable. In 2012, MoMA hosted a wonderful exhibition on select photos by Atget and I was very eager to see his photos in person. Atget worked toward the end of the 19th century and used photographic techniques that were unusual for his time, specifically his snapshot quality of daily life in Paris and of various French gardens, including Versailles. Personally, I continue to be inspired and captivated by his work and feel connected to the timeless quality of his photos. 

The Gardens of Versailles

The Gardens of Versailles are exceptional. Spending a sunny afternoon meandering around the huge property of Versailles was so breathtaking and entrancing. The garden is comprised of a major path or allée that features trimmed hedges, fountains, allegorical statues. Many other paths and smaller enclosed hedges spring off from the main path. The gardens also include several other tangent properties, including Marie Antoinette's Petit Trianon. The most famous fountain in the garden is of the sun god Apollo rising out of the middle of a fountain with golden horses. When the fountain is 'on' with water flowing, the horses seems to be splashing and moving about. The entire garden is so spatially controlled and specific it wonderfully exemplifies the Rococo decorative motifs so popular at that time period. Versailles is the epitome and major influence of many other European gardens and palaces and it's wonderful to see many visitors continue to visit and discover how special it is.