Paris 1866 France Napoleon Tomb at Les Invalides Lithograph Philippe Benoist

Description

Paris — Les Invalides. Interior of the Dôme and Napoleon I’s tomb. Lithograph from 1866.

This large vertical view depicts the monumental interior of the Dôme des Invalides. In the foreground, visitors in nineteenth-century dress stand around the circular balustrade overlooking the crypt containing Napoleon I’s tomb. Their figures convey the scale of this spectacular architecture.

The eye is drawn towards the altar and its canopy supported by twisted columns. Tall fluted columns, sculpted capitals, arches and the decoration of the dome create a richly ornamented interior. The statues visible in the crypt and the geometric patterns of the floor complete this detailed depiction.

The print combines black and grey tones with golden-yellow accents highlighting selected architectural ornaments and the altar canopy. Light entering through the windows gives definition to the columns and depth to the composition.

Drawing: Chapuy.
Lithography: Philippe Benoist.
Figures: Adolphe Bayot.
Assigned date: 1866.
Technique: tinted lithograph on paper.
Sheet dimensions: 45.5 × 31.5 cm.
Image dimensions: 35.8 × 24.4 cm.

Condition: clearly legible image with margins retained. The photographs form an integral part of the description.

A decorative print bringing together the history of Paris, Napoleonic heritage and the architecture of Les Invalides. Its vertical format and wealth of detail make it particularly well suited to framing.