About this sheet
Antique Ottoman Door Panels Print, Yenişehir, Turkey, 1580, Alexandre Raymond, 1924
This original architectural plate illustrates three types of traditional wooden door panels from Yenişehir (Yéni-Cheïr) in northwestern Anatolia, dated to approximately 1580. Published as Plate 34 in Alexandre M. Raymond's celebrated folio *L'Art Islamique en Orient – IIe Partie*, the work belongs to one of the most significant early twentieth-century surveys of Ottoman architecture and decorative arts.
The sheet presents three measured designs at a scale of 1:10, each demonstrating a distinct interpretation of geometric ornament in Ottoman woodworking. The large panel on the left employs an intricate interlocking arrangement of rectangular forms, while the central and right examples explore rhythmic, almost labyrinthine compositions built from repeating angular motifs. Their restrained geometry reflects the sophisticated balance between decoration, proportion, and craftsmanship that characterized provincial Ottoman architecture during the classical age.
Produced during the reign of Sultan Murad III, these designs belong to the mature period of Ottoman artistic expression, when local craftsmen adapted imperial aesthetics to domestic and civic architecture throughout Anatolia. The abstract ornamentation reveals the enduring influence of earlier Seljuk traditions while embracing the clarity and order associated with sixteenth-century Ottoman design.
Architect and scholar Alexandre M. Raymond carefully documented such decorative fragments during his extensive travels across Turkey. His publications remain valuable references for historians, architects, and collectors, preserving details that in many cases have since disappeared or been altered through restoration.
The harmonious palette of muted browns and pale green accents gives the composition a remarkably modern appearance, making this sheet particularly attractive for contemporary interiors as well as traditional settings.
This print is entirely original and dates from 1924. It is sold unframed. Any framed illustrations are shown for visual inspiration only.
Condition: Good original condition with age-related toning, scattered foxing, minor marginal wear, and light handling marks consistent with age. The printed image remains crisp and well-preserved, with attractive original colouring.
Framing recommendations: This horizontal composition pairs beautifully with a wide ivory museum mat and a dark walnut or ebonized frame inspired by Ottoman woodwork. A subtle gilt slip complements the soft green details. Museum glass is recommended for long-term conservation.
Keywords: Yenişehir, Yéni-Cheïr, Ottoman doors, Ottoman woodwork, Islamic geometry, geometric ornament, Anatolian architecture, Seljuk influence, Turkish decorative arts, Islamic design, Ottoman interiors, architectural study, sacred geometry, interlocking patterns, sixteenth century, Murad III, Alexandre Raymond, L'Art Islamique en Orient, antique lithograph, Islamic craftsmanship, Turkish heritage, Ottoman architecture, traditional woodworking, geometric panels, Anatolia.
Technique: Lithograph with printed colour.
Maker: Alexandre M. Raymond, French architect and scholar of Islamic architecture, Paris, 1924.
Original antique print. Sold unframed. Framed images are for display inspiration only.
