These images, and many others found at Paris1914, were taken using Autochrome Lumière technology, an early color photography process, patented in 1903 and invented by the famous French Auguste and Louis Lumière. The Lumière brothers were the earliest filmmakers in history.

Avenue Hoche – 1919

10th Arrondissement – Wandering flower vendors in Place de la République in front of the Verines Armory – 10 May, 1918 – Auguste Léon

These images capture a Paris normally seen in grainy black-and-white photos, and bring a life to the city that can be seen today. In truth, it shows that Paris is very resistant to change – other than abominations such as the Pompidou museum and the glass pyramid at the Louvre, the city looks today much as it did then.

The full collection was available at paris1914.com, but it appears this website has been taken down. You can see a few more color photos of Paris from the epoch here.

The Old Wolf has spoken.