Biblioteca del Convento de San Francisco de Asis, Lima, Peru

Signed, titled, dated and from edition of 5 on artist’s label on verso.

Available in 3 sizes: 100 x 120 cm. (39.4 x 47.2 in.), 120 x 150 cm. (47.2 x 59.1 in.), 180 x 225 cm. (70.9 x 88.6 in.)

The Biblioteca del Convento de San Francisco de Asis, situated within the magnificent Franciscan convent in Lima, Peru, is not only a testament to the city’s colonial past but also a symbol of its cultural and intellectual heritage.

Listri’s photograph captures the essence of the library, with its grandeur evident in the towering bookshelves and expansive space. The composition is centered, drawing the viewer’s attention toward the far wall adorned with staircases and rows of large, opened books.

The play of light, emanating from the left side and overhead fixtures, adds depth and dimension to the scene, casting a warm glow that illuminates the intricate details of the space.

Through Listri’s lens, the Biblioteca del Convento de San Francisco de Asis emerges as a sanctuary of learning and contemplation, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in its timeless allure.

Built in the Spanish Baroque style, the convent stands as one of the largest monuments in Lima’s historical heart. It served as a center of the mission undertaken by the Franciscans on behalf of the Spanish crown. Recognizing the importance of knowledge and education, the Franciscans equipped the convent with an extensive library, considering books as essential spiritual tools for monks.

The library played a pivotal role in the dissemination of learning and served as a resource for the entire city. It housed a diverse collection of works, including Church history, theology, philosophy, sciences, hymn-books, Bibles, and dictionaries. Notably, it housed the first dictionary of the Spanish language compiled by the Royal Spanish Academy.

Additionally, the library’s holdings included documents and archival materials related to administrative functions, such as those performed during Inquisition trials. The convent’s strategic location, possibly connected to the archbishop’s palace and the Inquisition tribunal via secret underground passages, underscores its significance in the city’s history.

Today, the library stands as a testament to this rich and complex history. Books and documents line the walls of the room, lit by overhead windows, while spiral staircases provide access to the upper galleries. The dark cedar furnishings contrast with colorful floor tiles imported from Seville, creating a visually striking ambiance that reflects the cultural and historical legacy of the Biblioteca del Convento de San Francisco de Asis.