Rare 1852 Tinted Lithograph of Hagia Sophia, Istanbul by L. Haghe after Fossati
€ 1 620
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Date
1852
Sheet size
44.1 × 61.5 cm (17.4 × 24.2 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-14041-3
Condition
Condition report: Light browning and foxing are visible, especially on the wide white margins. The main illustration retains sharp detail and vibrant tones.
About this sheet
This rare tinted lithograph captures the iconic Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, once a Byzantine cathedral, later an Ottoman mosque, and now a symbol of the city’s rich history. Created in 1852 by L. Haghe after designs by Fossati and Gayer, it was published by Day & Son for Colnaghi, London. The view shows the grandeur of this architectural marvel, surrounded by trees, worshippers, and a serene cityscape. The mounted Arabic title adds cultural authenticity to this highly collectible piece. Fossati famously restored Hagia Sophia during the 1840s, making this lithograph historically significant.
Condition report: Light browning and foxing are visible, especially on the wide white margins. The main illustration retains sharp detail and vibrant tones.
Framing tip: Use archival matting and UV-protective glass to maintain its condition. A dark mat with a subtle gold or bronze frame will emphasize the lithograph's historical and architectural elegance.