This collection contains approximately 170,000 photographs of architecture from the medieval period to the present day. The images are drawn from a variety of sources, illustrating general views, plans, streets, buildings and architectural details. This unique collection dates from the 19th century, and therefore many pictures show buildings that are now destroyed. Each image is accompanied by explanatory annotations. The images are arranged on the microfiche alphabetically by location.
Most material is organized chronologically.
This microfiche publication reproduces material from the photographic records of the French State Archives. Begun in 1851, the Archive is one of the largest of its kind, and includes many photographs of works of art destroyed or lost in the two world wars. Its aim has been to record the principal works of art in French collections, public and private, and also major works from foreign sources exhibited in France. The coverage is extensive, illustrating over 70,000 items from over 200 museums and galleries. Collections from major national museums are grouped together.