Le Baiser de l'Hôtel de Ville (The Kiss by the Hôtel de Ville) [Alternative identification: The Kiss at the Flower Market]
Photograph, gelatin silver print • Robert Doisneau (French, 1912–1994)
![Le Baiser de l'Hôtel de Ville (The Kiss by the Hôtel de Ville) [Alternative identification: The Kiss at the Flower Market]](https://media.artidentifier.com/a8e152e3-1ef6-42fe-b7bb-3ae9d0cba172-compressed.jpg)
Style & Movement
Humanist Photography / Street Photography
Medium & Technique
Black and white photography, gelatin silver process involving a silver halide suspension in gelatin on paper.
Creation Period
1950 (Captured March-April 1950; this specific print appears to be a later production)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12 x 10 inches (image area), portrait orientation, framed with matting.
Subject Description
A young couple sharing a spontaneous-looking kiss on a busy Parisian street near a flower stall. The image symbolizes post-war romance and the charm of Paris. While it appears to be a candid shot, it was actually staged by Doisneau using aspiring actors Françoise Bornet and Jacques Carteaud.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good. The print appears stable within its mount, although reflection on the glass suggests it is not museum-quality anti-reflective glazing.
Estimated Market Value
If a modern open-edition poster: $50 - $150; If a signed, vintage gelatin silver print: $15,000 - $30,000.
Auction Estimate
For an unsigned, late-edition print: $200 - $500; For a signed lifetime print: $8,000 - $12,000.
Provenance History
Likely acquired via a gallery or retail outlet specializing in 20th-century photography posters or open-edition prints. No visible unique markings or signatures are present in the provided image.
Art Historical Significance
One of the most iconic images in the history of photography. It defines the 'Humanist' school of French photography, focusing on the everyday joys of life in Paris following the trauma of WWII. It gained massive global fame in the 1980s as a best-selling poster.
Notable Features
The background features the 'Crédit Commercial de France' and classic Parisian architecture, providing a distinct sense of place and mid-century aesthetic.
Condition Issues
Potential minor acid migration from non-archival matting; slight surface reflections. No obvious tears, foxing, or silver mirroring visible through the frame.
Conservation Recommendations
Ensure the use of acid-free, 100% cotton rag matting and UV-protective glass. Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent silver fading and yellowing of the paper base.