(THEATRE). REUTLINGER, photographer. ~ Le Panorama. Paris: Librairie d’Art, Ludovic Baschet. 1896-8.
3 series bound together, oblong folio (270 × 340 mm). Contemporary half morocco, gilt. Slightly rubbed.
Nos jolies actrices, [1896], pp. [80], (5 numbers, complete, preserving upper wrapper of number 1).
Paris la Nuit, [1898], pp. [160] (10 numbers, complete, preserving all upper wrappers).
Paris qui s’amuse, [1898], pp. [152] (10 numbers, complete, preserving all upper wrappers).
First edition of these three photographically illustrated albums, mainly portraits of contemporary Parisian actresses, dancers and singers, both from the mainstream theatres and the smaller dance halls and cafés-concerts. Reutlinger’s studio specialised in such portraits, usually actresses photographed in different degrees of deshabille in either studio settings or in the corridors and dressing rooms of the theatre. The voyeurism of the photographer is extended into bedroom and bathroom scenes intended to illustrate the daily routine of the ideal Parisienne. Sarah Bernhardt and Yvette Guilbert appear, while most subjects are now little-known but then much admired Parisian performers.