A Tower of Saint Front, Perigueux

John Taylor Arms

Périgueux has one of the most extensive old towns in the Dordogne department in France. The Périgueux Cathedral was originally built in the 12th century but it was rebuilt by the architect Paul Abadie between 1852 and 1895. The base of the bell tower was part of the original church. Today, the square bell tower has three tiers pierced with arches that support a tall dome. In Arms’ etching, the bell tower looms above a narrow cobblestone alley lined with ancient stone buildings. In perhaps a tribute to Whistler, Arms left building surfaces unmarked by his etching needle. Light vertical passages draw the viewer’s eye toward the darker more detailed center of the image. One’s eyes move upward with the play of shadow, texture, and light toward the imposing domed bell tower.