Ancien Couvent, Avenue de l'Observatoire (Old Convent, avenue d l'Observatoire)

The bare trees and high, weather-stained wall in front of this building convey a contemplative atmosphere that seems especially appropriate for an old convent. Propped against the wall behind the gas lamp, a ladder suggests a romantic scene from literature, perhaps an escape of some sort. Although it was not raining when Eugène Atget created this picture, the wet ground indicates that a downpour had only recently passed.