About this sheet
The Pantheon and Piazza della Rotonda, Rome – Benoist 1869 Lithograph
NOTE: This original antique lithograph is offered unframed, allowing the buyer full freedom of framing choice.
This impressive 19th-century lithograph depicts the Pantheon of Agrippa and the lively Piazza della Rotonda in Rome, one of the most iconic urban spaces of the Eternal City. Created by Félix Benoist after Bayot and published in Paris in 1869, the print forms part of the celebrated series Rome dans sa Grandeur, an ambitious artistic project dedicated to portraying Rome as a unified historical landscape where antiquity and modern life coexist.
The composition centers on the monumental façade of the Pantheon, its classical portico supported by massive Corinthian columns and crowned by the famous inscription honoring Marcus Agrippa. The ancient temple—by the 19th century functioning as the Church of Santa Maria ad Martyres—dominates the scene with timeless architectural authority. In front of the building stands the fountain and obelisk of Piazza della Rotonda, anchoring the bustling square.
Benoist enriches the architectural setting with animated scenes of daily Roman life. A preacher addresses a gathered crowd in the foreground, while families, children, merchants, and passersby fill the piazza, creating a vivid impression of civic and social activity. Horse-drawn carriages and market stalls further emphasize the Pantheon’s role not only as a historic monument but as the living center of an active neighborhood. This blending of monumentality and everyday life is characteristic of Rome dans sa Grandeur, reflecting the 19th-century fascination with Rome as both archaeological treasure and modern city.
The lithographic technique demonstrates exceptional precision and tonal subtlety. Fine architectural detailing contrasts with soft atmospheric shading, lending depth to the sky and enhancing the sense of space within the square. The balanced composition and recognizable subject make this print particularly appealing to collectors of Roman views, Grand Tour imagery, and classical architectural prints.
Its strong visual presence and harmonious composition make the lithograph ideal for display in libraries, studies, or refined interiors where historic European imagery adds character and cultural depth.
Condition report:
Good antique condition overall. Light age-related toning and scattered foxing, primarily visible in the margins. Image remains clear and well-defined with strong detail. No significant tears or restorations observed.
Framing tips:
A wide ivory or warm cream mat enhances the architectural clarity and balances the composition. Frames in dark walnut, ebonized wood, or antique gilt complement the classical subject matter. Museum glass is recommended for long-term preservation and visual clarity.
Technique: Lithograph
Maker: Félix Benoist after Bayot, Paris, 1869
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