Mariano Felipe Paz Soldán, Views of the Cathedral and La Merced Church, Lima, 1865, Print

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Antique lithograph views of the Cathedral and La Merced Church, Lima – 1865 This lithograph sheet presents two of Lima’s … Read more Antique lithograph views of the Cathedral and La Merced Church, Lima – 1865 This lithograph sheet presents two of Lima’s most important religious monuments: the *Iglesia de La Merced* and the *Catedral de Lima*. Published in 1865 in Mariano Felipe Paz Soldán’s *Atlas Geográfico del Perú*, the first national atlas of Peru, this plate was printed in Paris by the renowned lithographic firm Lemercier. The upper view shows the *Iglesia de La Merced*, a church with origins in the 16th century that was rebuilt multiple times after earthquakes. The lithograph captures its richly ornamented baroque façade and imposing tower, with the long nave stretching back into the city. It emphasizes both the grandeur of the architecture and its position as a key feature of Lima’s streetscape. The lower view depicts the *Catedral de Lima*, founded by Francisco Pizarro in 1535 and later rebuilt in a combination of baroque and neoclassical styles. Its impressive façade, dominated by two towers, is one of Lima’s defining landmarks. The print highlights its monumental scale and the surrounding Plaza Mayor, situating the cathedral at the civic and spiritual heart of the capital. Together, these views illustrate the central role of ecclesiastical architecture in 19th-century Lima, combining artistic detail with documentary accuracy. For collectors, this plate offers an authentic representation of two of the most significant religious monuments in Peru’s history. Condition report: Very good condition. Sepia tint stone well preserved, with crisp detail. Light marginal toning and a faint water stain along the right edge, not intruding into the printed area. Wide margins and clear plate mark. Framing tips: Best displayed in a vertical frame with a cream or ivory mat. A dark wooden or black frame will emphasize the sepia tones, while a thin gold inner border could bring out the architectural richness of the façades. Technique: Lithograph with tint stone Maker: Mariano Felipe Paz Soldán, Paris, 1865 See less