Rare Liberation of Paris Photographs Reveal World War II History

The Cartier-Bresson Foundation's Photography and Heritage Media Library holds invaluable historical photo collections, including those related to the Liberation of Paris during World War II, featuring notable photographers such as Henri Cartier-Bresson and Roger Parry. The library preserves significant archival material that sheds light on the efforts of photographers like Henri Membré, who coordinated wartime reportage and helped establish the AFP photographic service post-Liberation. Meanwhile, Espace Louis Vuitton in New York is showcasing a rare exhibition of two major paintings by French Impressionist Gustave Caillebotte, highlighting themes of masculinity and modern life through intimate and social scenes, marking the first time these works have been displayed together outside France. This exhibition also celebrates the 2022 acquisition of "Boating Party," a painting recognized as a French National Treasure, emphasizing Caillebotte's unique perspective within Impressionism. Both the photographic archives and the art exhibition emphasize the importance of preserving and revisiting historical and cultural artifacts to deepen understanding of past eras and artistic movements.