Photographer Janine Pendleton @ Obsidian Urbex Photography is the Edge of Humanity Magazine contributor of this documentary photography. From her project ‘Chateau Secession‘. To see Janine’s gallery of projects click on any image.
Chateau Secession is a large abandoned mansion in France. There are records of the chateau dating back to the 12th Century, although any original buildings would have long since been replaced. It has been owned by various Lords and Nobles over the centuries, passing hands between various wealthy families. In the 1630’s the chateau was looted and damaged by Imperialists. The foundations of the present chateau were laid down in the 1750’s, built from white stone and surrounded by large grounds which are enclosed by a tall and imposing wall. Extensive renovations and alterations were undertaken in the 1850’s; new windows and addition/expansion of a second floor with addition of large skylights. The coat of arms was added externally at this time. During the First World War the chateau was occupied and looted by German troops, despite being quite far away from the front lines. Chateau Secession become abandoned after the Second World War, and was sold in the 1980’s to a lawyer in Paris who still owns the chateau but does not reside there or maintain it.
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By Janine Pendleton
