The old military fort on the French island Belle Ile en Mer, that The Divine Sarah Bernhardt (sometimes called The Scandalous) converted into her summer haven. The famous actress may have been born on October 22, 1844, though her original birth certificate burned during the Paris Commune. She created a new one, but there are inconsistencies and she was generally known to have had a casual relationship with the truth. She is famously reported to have replied to Oscar Wilde’s, “Do you mind if I smoke?” with, “I don’t care if you burn.”
Paris-based photographer Danielle Voirin travels the world and documents her experiences in photographs. She takes street photography and photojournalism a shade beyond even art, to the level of mysticism. You may see more of her work on her website DanielleVoirin.com, or her alt website, DaniVoirin.com.
I can think of cozier places to convert into a summer cottage than a military fort, but Ms. Bernhardt was nothing if not unconventional. Thank you especially for the video link — such fun. A lovely portrait, and Sarah’s philosophy for life is a vibrant one.
And I believe that was the first time I’ve ever heard the phrase, “sexy society gynecologist.” I rather hope it’s the last…though, looking at the good doctor’s portrait, I can see why he got that reputation.
😉
Sarah was the 19th Century Madonna of marketing and self-promotion.