About this sheet
An exceptionally decorative and historically important pair of original architectural plates from Alexandre M. Raymond's celebrated publication L'Art Islamique en Orient – IIe Partie, documenting the celebrated Ottoman thermal baths (hammams) of Bursa, Turkey.
The two companion sheets depict:
• Hammam de Brousse – Yéni-Kaplidja (Plate 51)
• Hammam de Brousse – Eski-Kaplidja (Plate 52)
Printed in Paris in the early 1920s, these elegant folio plates combine precise architectural draftsmanship with the refined graphic sensibility characteristic of the late Ottoman revival period. Rendered in subtle blue-green tones, the compositions include sectional elevations, floor plans, dome structures, and engineering layouts of two of Bursa's most renowned thermal complexes.
The pair forms a natural set and is particularly striking when displayed together. Although each sheet measures approximately 35.5 × 49 cm, one composition is conceived in portrait orientation while the other is landscape, creating a dynamic and scholarly presentation when framed side by side.
Alexandre Marcel Raymond devoted decades to documenting the architectural heritage of Anatolia and the Ottoman world. His monumental publication remains among the most important visual surveys of Islamic decorative and architectural traditions produced during the early twentieth century.
These authentic period impressions are highly desirable for collectors of Islamic art, Ottoman architecture, architectural drawings, spa and bath history, and sophisticated interior design projects.
The framed photographs shown are for visual inspiration only. The prints are sold unframed.
Condition Report:
Both sheets are in good antique condition with age-appropriate toning, minor foxing, light handling wear, and gentle edge irregularities consistent with original folio plates from the period. Colors remain soft and attractive. Overall, a very appealing matching pair suitable for framing.
Framing Recommendations:
The pair works beautifully when framed individually in identical dark walnut, ebonized, or Ottoman-inspired mouldings with ivory museum mats. Hanging the two works together with aligned bottom edges emphasizes the contrast between portrait and landscape formats while preserving their identical dimensions of 35.5 × 49 cm.
The prints are sold unframed; framed images are for presentation purposes only.
