The photograph “Au Tambour, 63 quai de la Tournelle” was taken by Eugene Atget in 1908. It is an image of what appears to be a shopfront or entrance to a business. There is elaborate text and decorative elements on the facade. The name “H. COUSIN” is visible above the doorway, and various objects, such as a lantern and what appears to be a menu or notice board, are in view.
In detail, the photograph is characterized by a rich array of textures and contrasts. The top of the image is dominated by bold, dark lettering against a lighter background, possibly indicating the name of the establishment or its location. A barrel is hanging above the central door, potentially hinting at the trade of the establishment or serving as signage. The reflection in the glass door shows a silhouette of Atget or his camera setup, as well as the opposite side of the street, adding an eerie depth and sense of presence to the scene. The iron railing in front of the door and windows adds to the composition’s structure, with its pattern and shadow playing against the surfaces around it.
The image captures the essence of the early 20th-century Parisian streets and tends to evoke a historical atmosphere, offering a glimpse into the everyday life and urban landscape of the period. It is typical of Atget’s work, who was known for documenting the architecture and street scenes of Paris before many parts of the old city were modernized.
