Delamare, Cathedral of Arequipa, Peru, 1865, Print

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Antique lithograph of the cathedral of arequipa, peru – 1865 this striking lithograph shows the cathedral of arequipa, one of … Read more Antique lithograph of the cathedral of arequipa, peru – 1865 this striking lithograph shows the cathedral of arequipa, one of the finest examples of peruvian neoclassical architecture, with the imposing misti volcano rising dramatically in the background. It was published in paris in 1865 as part of mariano felipe paz soldán’s landmark *atlas geográfico de la república del perú*, the first comprehensive national atlas of peru. The image was drawn by f. Delamare and printed by h. Jacomme in paris. The cathedral, originally built in the 17th century and reconstructed several times after earthquakes, dominates the city’s plaza de armas with its monumental façade and twin towers. The lithograph captures the grandeur of the building, with its long colonnaded front, pediment with sculptural reliefs, and soaring bell towers. In the foreground, a lively market scene unfolds, with tents and figures scattered across the plaza, providing a glimpse into everyday urban life in mid-19th century arequipa. Paz soldán’s *atlas geográfico* was a landmark publication in peruvian history, containing 49 maps and plans as well as 29 lithographic views of cities, landscapes, and monuments. These plates not only served a geographic and documentary purpose but also introduced a european audience to the cultural and architectural richness of peru. The arequipa cathedral, set against the snow-capped andean peaks, epitomized the blending of colonial heritage with the dramatic natural environment of southern peru. This print is particularly evocative because it depicts the cathedral as it appeared before later 19th- and 20th-century restorations altered parts of its façade. As such, it is both a work of art and a valuable historical record. Collectors of latin american art and history prize these plates for their beauty and rarity. Condition report: good condition overall. Some scattered foxing in the margins and light handling marks, but the image itself remains sharp and clean. Plate mark visible. Blank verso. Framing tips: a classic presentation with a dark wooden or walnut frame and a cream or pale stone-colored mat will emphasize the architectural detail and volcanic landscape. A wider mat border will add balance and bring focus to the cathedral’s impressive façade. Technique: lithograph maker: f. Delamare (artist), printed by h. Jacomme, paris, 1863, for mariano felipe paz soldán’s *atlas geográfico de la república del perú* (paris, 1865) See less