Artwork
St. Peter's
St. Peter's is a photography by the Impressionist artist Robert Macpherson. It dates from 1858 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. St.
- Accession no.
- 1986.196
- Credit line
- John L. Severance Fund
About this work
The dome looks smooth and shiny, while the buildings below have flat roofs and simple shapes.
This photo shows a big, fancy building with a huge dome in the center. It sits on a hill, surrounded by smaller houses and streets. The dome looks smooth and shiny, while the buildings below have flat roofs and simple shapes.
The artist used a curved frame, making the scene look like you’re peering through a window. This was a new way to show views back then.
Next, check out Robert Macpherson (British, 1811–1872) to see more of his work.
Overview
St. Peter's is a photograph taken by Robert Macpherson in 1858, depicting the basilica in Vatican City.
Subject & Meaning
The image showcases the basilica's prominent dome amidst the surrounding urban landscape, highlighting its architectural significance.
Technique & Style
Macpherson employed a curved frame to create a sense of depth, framing the scene as if viewed through a window, a technique innovative for its time.
History & Provenance
Robert Macpherson, a Scottish artist and photographer active in Rome, contributed to the visual documentation of the city's historic sites during the 19th century.
Artist & collection
Artist
Robert Turnbull Macpherson (27 February 1814 – 17 November 1872) was a Scottish artist and photographer who worked in Rome, Italy, in the 19th century.
Panorama dalla Cupola di S. Pietro, Rome
Sankt Peter, Rom
St. Jean de Lateran, Rome
The Church of St Peter's in Rome
View of Rome
Santa Maria della Salute, View of the Grand Canal, Venice
Untitled
Blick auf S. Maria della Salute und den Canal Grande
H Beard Print Collection
View of St. Peters, Rome
Views of Venice: S. M. Della Salute
Untitled