Papal Procession at St. Peter’s Basilica, Antique Lithograph, 1869

Religion · 19th century

Papal Procession at St. Peter’s Basilica, Antique Lithograph, 1869

€ 350

Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)

Date: 1869
Sheet size: 34.7 × 50 cm (13.7 × 19.7 in)
Condition: Good
Reference: BG-14203-19

What the condition grades mean

Excellent: Bright and clean, with no faults worth mentioning.
Very good: Only light signs of age, such as faint toning.
Good: Normal signs of age for a sheet of this period: toning, some foxing, small marks or neat old repairs.
Fair: Clear faults such as staining, tears or repairs, priced to match.

Every fault we see is written in the condition note, and the whole sheet is shown uncropped in the photos.

Condition

Even age toning; light foxing mainly in margins; image area strong.

About this sheet

Papal Procession at St Peter’s, Rome – Antique Ceremonial Print, 1869

This original antique lithograph, printed in Paris in 1869, captures a solemn papal procession within St Peter’s Basilica, conveying the grandeur and ritual of Vatican Rome. This map is offered unframed, allowing the buyer full freedom of framing choice.

This dramatic lithograph captures a solemn papal procession within St Peter’s Basilica, with the Sovereign Pontiff borne aloft amid clergy and guards. The richly layered composition conveys movement, ritual, and authority, offering a rare glimpse into the ceremonial life of 19th-century Vatican Rome.

Part of Rome dans sa Grandeur and published in Paris between 1867 and 1869, this plate differs from purely architectural views by focusing on religious spectacle and pageantry. Benoist’s mastery of crowd composition and tonal depth creates a powerful sense of occasion and reverence.

The subdued tinting enhances the solemn atmosphere without distracting from the narrative detail. This print appeals strongly to collectors of Vatican history, religious art, and ceremonial imagery.

Condition report:
Even age toning; light foxing mainly in margins; image area strong.

Framing tips:
Wide off-white mat with a dark frame to emphasize drama and contrast.