Ataliba Makes a Sacrifice to the Sun, 1800s, Paper

Details

Description

Large and impressive 19th century French chromolithograph titled “Ataliba fait un sacrifice au soleil”, printed in Paris by the prestigious … Read more Large and impressive 19th century French chromolithograph titled “Ataliba fait un sacrifice au soleil”, printed in Paris by the prestigious Imprimerie Lemercier, official printer to the Musée du Louvre and the French National Museums, after a composition by Colin.
The scene depicts a dramatic Inca ritual dedicated to the Sun God, rendered in the highly theatrical and romantic style popular in mid-19th century France. Rich costumes, ceremonial gestures, and luminous color layering reflect the finest academic and Orientalist visual culture of the period.
This is a true chromolithograph, produced through multiple stone plates, allowing exceptional depth, softness of skin tones, and refined detail in textiles and smoke.
Printed by Lemercier à Paris, whose works were commissioned for museums, academic institutions, and major historical publications across Europe.

Dimensions:
71.5 x 53 cm
28.1 x 20.9 in

Condition:
Very good antique condition for a mid-19th century paper work.
The sheet shows original age-related foxing and small stains around the margins.
The back has an old professional backing applied with reinforcing sheets, likely from a late 19th or early 20th century conservation treatment, done to stabilize the paper.
Colors remain strong, vibrant, and beautifully preserved.
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