Prestigious monuments: an intimate view by Raphaël Gaillarde

Renowned and respected photographer Raphaël Gaillarde helps us discover the hidden recesses of famous sites through intimate imagery and hushed ambiance.

With a unique talent for capturing and rendering the atmosphere of buildings like the Palaces of Versailles and Fontainebleau from a new perspective, Raphaël Gaillarde never ceases to amaze us with his profound understanding of light and composition. 

► A nocturnal visit to the Palace of Versailles

Fascinated by historic locations and their secrets, Raphaël Gaillarde takes us on a nocturnal tour of the Palace of Versailles.

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The Royal Opera of the Palace of Versailles
Photo (C) Collection Raphaël Gaillarde, Dist. RMN-Grand Palais

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Palace of Versailles: Apollo Salon
Photo (C) Collection Raphaël Gaillarde, Dist. RMN-Grand Palais

► Palace of Fontainebleau 

Raphaël Gaillarde renders sublime "the true house of kings, the house of ages", as Napoleon described the Palace of Fontainebleau in Saint Helena in 1816.

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Francis I Gallery, Palace of Fontainebleau.
Photo (C) Collection Raphaël Gaillarde, Dist. RMN-Grand Palais

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The Imperial Theatre of the Palace of Fontainebleau, seen from a box.
Photo (C) Collection Raphaël Gaillarde, Dist. RMN-Grand Palais

► The Grand Palais

A true crystal palace, the Grand Palais combines strength and fragility with its glass and metal architecture. Raphaël Gaillarde has succeeded in capturing the alchemy of the building as an exhibition and festive space, from an artistic and aesthetic view.

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The stairway of honour of the Grand Palais nave.
Photo (C) Collection Raphaël Gaillarde, Dist. RMN-Grand Palais

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The installation of one of two quadrigas by Georges Récipon during the restoration works at the Grand Palais.
Photo (C) Collection Raphaël Gaillarde, Dist. RMN-Grand Palais