Lima Church of San Francisco and Church of San Pedro, 1865, Lithograph on Paper

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This lithograph sheet presents two of Lima’s most important churches: the *Iglesia de San Francisco* and the *Iglesia de San … Read more This lithograph sheet presents two of Lima’s most important churches: the *Iglesia de San Francisco* and the *Iglesia de San Pedro*.
It was published in 1865 in Mariano Felipe Paz Soldán’s *Atlas Geográfico del Perú*, the first national atlas of Peru, printed in Paris by the prestigious lithographers Lemercier. The upper view depicts the *Iglesia de San Francisco*, one of Lima’s most celebrated colonial monuments. The grand façade, flanked by twin towers and crowned with domes, exemplifies the city’s baroque architectural heritage. This convent complex, dating back to the 17th century, is today recognized as part of Lima’s UNESCO World Heritage ensemble.
The lithograph conveys both the imposing structure and the spacious setting of the church within the urban landscape. The lower view shows the *Iglesia de San Pedro*, another significant religious landmark founded by the Jesuits in the 17th century. Its façade, with balanced towers and richly ornamented detailing, reflects the influence of both baroque and neoclassical styles. The print highlights its prominence as a center of Jesuit spiritual and educational life in colonial and republican Lima. Together, these paired views illustrate the richness of Lima’s ecclesiastical architecture, capturing both monumental scale and stylistic refinement. They serve as a visual testimony of the city’s religious identity and architectural development in the 19th century. For collectors of Latin American prints, religious art, or architectural history, this lithograph is a highly desirable piece from one of Peru’s most significant illustrated works.
Condition report: Very good condition. Sepia tint stone well preserved with sharp detail. Minor foxing and light toning in margins, not affecting the images. Wide margins intact, plate mark visible. See less