Lot of 2 old photos, Oriental & colonial architecture, original print, early

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This lot consists of two old black and white postcard-sized photographs, each showing an urban architectural scene. The first print presents a view of traditional buildings with oriental architecture, featuring an ogival arched entrance in the foreground, plastered walls, and a large dome visible in the background. Two figures in traditional attire stand near the entrance, enhancing the authentic atmosphere of the scene. A leaning palm tree completes the composition, reinforcing the local character of the setting. The image bears the number "2" in the bottom right corner.

The second photograph illustrates a monumental building, characteristic of early 20th-century public constructions, likely of colonial inspiration. The facade is distinguished by a series of regular arcades, a floor with semicircular arched windows, and a majestic entrance. Several horse-drawn cabs are parked in front of the building, while passers-by in period clothing animate the scene. The number "97" appears in the bottom left corner of the print.

Both photographs attest to an old photographic technique, with marked contrast and a silver print on thick paper, typical of early 20th-century productions. No text, logo, or handwritten annotations are visible on the presented sides. The clean edges and slightly patinated appearance reinforce the vintage charm of these authentic photographs.

These images capture two distinct atmospheres: one evoking a traditional setting with a daily life scene, the other illustrating an urban and institutional, probably administrative or municipal, perspective, marked by the presence of horse-drawn vehicles and architecture with Hispanic-Moorish influences.

The composition, light, and clothing style of the characters place these photographs in the first half of the 20th century, without a specific date or location being indicated on the visible sides.

Condition

Used photographs, sold as is. Some signs of wear, slight patina, and age marks visible on the edges, without major tearing on the presented side.

Did you know? Silver gelatin photographs on thick paper were commonly used to document architecture and urban life in the early 20th century, particularly in regions under colonial influence where photographic postcards served to disseminate exotic images and bear witness to urban transformations.

AFW Reassurance

Careful packaging and fast shipping by a professional seller specializing in antique objects and vintage photography.

Keywords: antique photography, silver print, vintage architecture photo, early 20th century postcard, orientalism photo, colonial building photo, old urban scene, original antique photo, early 20th century photograph, Morocco photo, Maghreb photo, historical architecture photo