The Tomb of Raphael, Opened September 14, 1833, Pantheon, Rome 1833

Horace Vernet created this print, "The Tomb of Raphael, Opened September 14, 1833, Pantheon, Rome," employing lithography to capture a historical moment. The print is dominated by a somber palette, where the interplay of light and shadow defines the architectural grandeur of the Pantheon and the solemnity of the event. Vernet masterfully employs perspective to draw the viewer's eye towards Raphael's tomb, creating a focal point amidst the surrounding architectural details and observing figures. The composition, organized around the central axis of the tomb, uses the strong vertical lines of the columns and statuary to convey a sense of classical order and permanence. The lithographic medium lends itself to fine details and tonal gradations, allowing Vernet to emphasize the textural contrast between the smooth surfaces of the marble and the rough-hewn stone of the tomb. This textural richness, combined with the somber lighting, evokes a sense of reverence. The scene, viewed through Vernet's formal lens, presents a discourse on memory, legacy, and the enduring power of art.