Interior of the Constantinople Hagia Sophia, Sébah & Joaillier albumen print, 1890s

SÉBAH & JOAILLIER, Constantinople: [HAGIA SOPHIA]. 501. Interièur De La Mosquée De Ste. Sophie. Vue générale. Original albumen print. Numbered, titled and signed in the negative. Constantinople: Sébah & Joaillier, s.a. [1890s].

26,5:21 cm, mounted on heavy cardboard (33:25 cm).

Original albumen print with an iconic view of the interior of the Hagia Sophia by renown Constantinople based photographer's studio Sébah & Joaillier.

Content: The print shows a general view of the interior of the Hagia Sophia, Constantinople's (today Istanbul's) most well known sacral building, taken from the gallery in direction of view of the Mihrab and the gigantic calligraphic medallions representing the names of Allah and Muhammad among others. The print is titled, numbered („501“) and signed in the negative.

Rarity: Although Sébah & Joaillier sold a number of their photos as prints and postcards with views of the city, inhabitant's daily activities and ancient sights to visiting tourists, present view of the interior of the famous mosque (and until recently museum) is hard to find.

Condition: Photo paper and cardboard in parts minimally foxy, corners and edges of cardboard with minor faults and tears as well as time and finger-stained, otherwise well preserved albumen print.