The Birthplace of Joan of Arc with Monument (Domrémy-la-Pucelle)
Hand-colored photograph on paper • Unknown amateur or commercial photographer (possibly a souvenir from a French studio such as Neurdein Frères)
Style & Movement
Pictorialism/Early Souvenir Photography
Medium & Technique
Black and white silver gelatin print with manual application of transparent oil or watercolor pigments (hand-tinting).
Creation Period
Early 20th Century (circa 1910-1930)
Dimensions & Format
Estimated 8x10 inches in landscape format, framed to approximately 16x20 inches.
Subject Description
A landscape view showing the modest stone birthplace of Joan of Arc in Domrémy. To the left is the Monument to Joan of Arc by Antonin Mercié (inaugurated 1891), depicting Joan departing her village. A lone male figure is seated on the monument base, providing scale.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair/Good. Significant silvering and oxidation of the photographic emulsion is visible in the shadowed foliage.
Estimated Market Value
$150 - $300 USD
Auction Estimate
$100 - $200 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired as a European Grand Tour souvenir or a religious memento from the site of the Saint’s birth. No specific labels visible.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the intersection of religious pilgrimage and early touristic photography in France, highlighting the cult of Joan of Arc following her beatification (1909) and canonization (1920).
Notable Features
The hand-tinting provides a distinct atmospheric quality characteristic of pre-color film eras. The frame is a period-style silvered wood moulding with decorative relief.
Condition Issues
Silvering-out (metallic sheen) in dark areas, fading of hand-applied color in the sky, potential acidic matting from the original framing.
Conservation Recommendations
Remove from existing acidic matting and re-mount with acid-free museum board and UV-filtering glass. Maintain stable temperature and low light cycles to prevent further fading.