South-East Europe · 17th century
€ 3 140
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Very good for its age. Light vertical fold marks as issued, general age toning, and slight creases in the margins. No major tears or losses. Strong impression with excellent detail. Uncolored, as originally issued.
Constantinople – Panoramic Engraving by Matthäus Merian the Elder, Frankfurt, 1635
This finely detailed copperplate engraving presents a sweeping bird’s-eye view of Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) as seen from across the Golden Horn, engraved by the renowned Swiss-German printmaker Matthäus Merian the Elder and published in Frankfurt in 1635. The title, engraved in Latin at the top, reads: "Constantinopolitanae Urbis Effigies ad Vivum Expressa, quam Turcae Stampoldam Vocant. A°. MDCXXXV." — meaning “A Lifelike Representation of the City of Constantinople, which the Turks call Stamboul, Year 1635.”
The panoramic composition offers a vivid visual record of the city’s skyline in the 17th century, dominated by the domes and minarets of mosques, palaces, and public buildings. The viewer looks across the Golden Horn toward the historic peninsula, where the Hagia Sophia (labeled “S. Sophia”), Topkapi Palace (“Seraglio”), Hippodrome, bazaars, and various mosques are clearly marked and numbered. The Galata Tower and city walls are also prominently featured.
A legend at the bottom provides identifications for 27 key landmarks in a mixture of Latin and German, adding documentary value to the print. In the foreground, pastoral elements such as trees, mounted figures, and hunters with dogs create a romantic frame that enhances the theatrical depth of the scene — a signature feature of Merian’s city views.
Matthäus Merian the Elder (1593–1650) was one of the leading engravers and publishers of the 17th century. His panoramic city views were widely admired for their accuracy and artistic elegance and were published in various atlases and topographical series, including the Topographia Germaniae and Itinerarium Italiae. This view of Constantinople remains one of his most iconic works.
Condition: Very good for its age. Light vertical fold marks as issued, general age toning, and slight creases in the margins. No major tears or losses. Strong impression with excellent detail. Uncolored, as originally issued.
Framing tips: Best presented in a dark wood or black frame with an antique gold fillet. Use a warm-toned or aged white mat to enhance the Baroque character and emphasize the crispness of the engraving.
Technique: Copperplate engraving
Maker: Matthäus Merian the Elder, Frankfurt am Main, 1635
