Peru Mining Mountain of Hualgayoc – Antique Lithograph, 1865

About this sheet

Antique lithograph of the Mining Mountain of Hualgayoc, Peru – 1865

This lithograph presents a panoramic view of the Cerro Mineral de Hualgayoc, one of Peru’s most famous mining districts, situated in the Cajamarca region. Published in Paris in 1865 as part of Mariano Felipe Paz Soldán’s Atlas Geográfico de la República del Perú, the image was drawn by F. Delamare and printed by H. Jacomme. It belongs to the series of 29 views that illustrated Peru’s cities, landscapes, and industrial sites in this groundbreaking atlas.

The composition shows the rugged slopes of the Hualgayoc mountain, whose mineral wealth made it one of the most productive silver mining areas of the colonial and early republican periods. The lithograph details the paths and roads cut into the hillside, while the foreground includes the clustered rooftops of the mining town below. The wide expanse of sky and the layered ridges beyond underscore the remote Andean setting of this vital center of extraction.

Hualgayoc became known as a key site of Spanish silver exploitation as early as the 18th century, producing vast quantities of ore that contributed to the colonial economy. By the time Paz Soldán compiled his atlas, the mines of Hualgayoc symbolized both Peru’s mineral wealth and the challenges of industrial development in the high Andes. Including this plate in the *Atlas Geográfico* emphasized the importance of mining to Peru’s economy and national identity.

Plates like this are prized not only for their documentary value but also for their artistic merit. Delamare’s careful lithographic work captures both the monumental natural form of the mountain and the human imprint of mining activity. For collectors of Latin American history and mining heritage, this print offers a striking visual testimony to one of the great mining landscapes of the Andes.

Condition report: Very good impression with strong detail. Light toning and faint handling marks in the wide margins, with occasional scattered foxing, not affecting the image. Small tear in top, outside image. Plate mark visible. Blank verso.

Framing tips: A natural wood or walnut frame with a neutral cream or pale beige mat will highlight the earthy tones of the lithograph. To enhance the mountainous relief, a slightly textured mat can add depth and complement the rugged subject.

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)

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