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Balloon ascent at night from Gare du Nord, Paris, Franco-Prussian War
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Balloon ascent at night from Gare du Nord, Paris, Franco-Prussian War
Balloon ascent from Gare du Nord, Paris, at night, to carry dispatches out of besieged city during Franco-Prussian War. In foreground men are picking up basket of homing pigeons which the baloon would take out of city and which would be released with messages
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 14840841
© Ann Ronan Picture Library / Heritage-Images
1870 1871 Air Balloon Ascending Balloon Communication Element Escape Flight Flying Franco Prussian War Gare Du Nord Hydrogen Pigeon Secrecy Siege Station Ann Ronan Pictures Wartime
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a moment of hope amidst the chaos of war. Taken during the Franco-Prussian War, it depicts a daring balloon ascent from Gare du Nord in Paris, under cover of darkness. The purpose? To carry vital dispatches out of the besieged city to ensure communication with the outside world. In the foreground, we see men carefully picking up a basket filled with homing pigeons. These feathered messengers would accompany the balloon on its perilous journey, carrying messages that could potentially alter the course of battle. As they are released into the night sky, their flight symbolizes both freedom and resilience in times of conflict. The image is shrouded in an air of secrecy and anticipation. The towering hydrogen-filled balloon looms above, ready to transport these crucial missives across enemy lines. Its presence serves as a reminder that even in warfare, innovation can be found – here represented by this 19th-century marvel. This photograph not only captures a historical event but also evokes emotions tied to survival and escape. It reminds us that even during dark times, humanity finds ways to communicate and connect beyond physical boundaries. In this monochrome masterpiece by an unknown creator preserved by Heritage Images, we witness an extraordinary chapter from France's past unfold before our eyes – one where birds become instruments of hope amid destruction and despair.
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