This photograph by the Séeberger brothers captures the Hôtel Lamoignon, one of the finest Renaissance mansions in Paris's historic Marais district. A woman in Belle Époque attire stands at a wrought-iron balcony, gazing at the elegant courtyard and façade of this 16th-century hôtel particulier. The image provides a glimpse of both architectural heritage and daily life in early 20th century Paris.

The Hôtel Lamoignon, built between 1585-1590 for Diane de France (daughter of King Henri II), represents the transitional architecture between Renaissance and Classical styles. By the time this photograph was taken, the Marais had transformed from an aristocratic neighborhood to a working-class district filled with small workshops and immigrant communities. The building itself would later be repurposed as the Historical Library of the City of Paris in 1969.

The Séeberger brothers (Jules, Louis, and Henri) were pioneering French photographers who documented Parisian life, fashion, and architecture from the 1900s through the 1930s. Their work provides valuable visual documentation of Paris during a period of significant urban transformation, capturing both grand monuments and everyday street scenes with remarkable clarity and composition.

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