Charles MARVILLE (1813-1879) Sainte-Croix Church, Bordeaux Albumen print c.1860

Albumen print photograph from 1860

Photographer's dry stamp in the cardboard under the image.

The Church of the Holy Cross before restoration, Bordeaux, France

Commissioned photograph for administrative use.

Classified as a Historical Monument in 1840, the church requires restoration work on its bell tower, and the Municipal Council wants to be able to oversee the work. A special commission is appointed to assist the historical monuments commission. Photographs are therefore commissioned.

Charles Marville (1813-1879) was an architectural photographer and "the photographer of the Imperial Louvre Museum." He collaborated on major restoration projects of the time and worked with the historical works department as well as with numerous architects, including Viollet-le-Duc.