Whenever i used to think of the 1910s, distinctly dark and unromantic thoughts would spring to mind. With the defining event of the decade being WW1, this is understandable, as well as the overshadowing lights and glamour of the 1920s. However, thanks to Alfonse Van Besten, my initial associations have been redirected somewhat, to incorporate his autochromes:
Apparently, Belgium produces worldclass chocolates, waffles and autochromists.
...Who knew?
I love how Van Besten seems to capture the romance in every image, whether classical, natural or mundane. They make me want to run into the botanical gardens and snatch up handfuls of wildflowers while reciting 'Ode On a Grecian Urn' to stunned passersby. I also find it nice to know that someone was still striving to make things beautiful in a time of such chaos and grief....Who knew?