Extraordinary and highly important pair of early 20th century French architectural etchings by the noted Parisian printmaker Victor Valery Lochelongue, uniquely representing both of the artist’s documented working signatures — the scarce early “V. Lochelongue” form and the later, more widely recognized “Victor Valery” signature. Rarely encountered together, the pairing offers not only exceptional visual presence but a remarkable chronological narrative documenting the evolution of the artist’s career and artistic identity during the golden age of French architectural etching.

The earlier etching, “Paris – Le Pont de l’Archevêché,” depicts Notre-Dame Cathedral rising majestically above the Seine beside the famed bridge and embankment, animated with laborers, barges, and scenes of daily Parisian river life rendered with extraordinary delicacy and atmospheric sophistication. Pencil signed “V. Lochelongue,” the composition embodies the romantic Belle Époque Paris atelier tradition, executed with refined hatch work, shimmering tonal wiping, and richly inked passages that dissolve beautifully into soft shadow and light.

Its companion, the monumental “Cathédrale de Reims,” signed under the artist’s later “Victor Valery” identity, captures the immense Gothic façade of one of Europe’s great medieval cathedrals with breathtaking precision and dramatic tonal depth. The soaring towers, sculptural portals, tracery, and vast rose window are rendered with remarkable architectural authority, while the moody plate wiping and dark inking evoke the powerful emotional atmosphere associated with France’s renewed fascination with Gothic monuments following the destruction and restoration campaigns of the First World War. Condition: both with light age toning, scattered foxing, and minor handling wear consistent with age; overall excellent visual presentation with deep rich impressions and clearly defined plate marks throughout.