Views of Europe · 19th century
€ 260
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Good condition with age-related toning and light foxing, mainly in the margins. Minor handling wear. Plate mark visible. Overall a strong and well-preserved impression.
Antique Bosphorus Entrance Print, Allom Black Sea View Constantinople, c.1838
A highly atmospheric and finely engraved early 19th-century view titled Entrance to the Bosphorus from the Black Sea, drawn by the renowned British artist Thomas Allom and engraved by J.C. Bentley. This composition forms part of the celebrated publication Constantinople and the Scenery of the Seven Churches of Asia Minor (circa 1836–1838), one of the most important illustrated works depicting the Ottoman Empire for a European audience.
The scene presents a tranquil yet expansive landscape overlooking the northern entrance to the Bosphorus, where the waters of the Black Sea meet the strait leading toward Constantinople. In the foreground, groups of figures in traditional Ottoman dress are gathered beneath large, sheltering trees, engaged in rest, conversation, and daily activities. Their presence adds both scale and narrative richness to the composition.
Framed by these monumental trees, the viewer’s eye is drawn across the water toward a distant fortified settlement rising along the hillside, likely representing one of the strategic strongholds guarding the Bosphorus. The combination of natural scenery, architecture, and human activity reflects Allom’s characteristic ability to merge topographical accuracy with romantic landscape aesthetics.
The engraving is executed with exceptional precision, showcasing fine linework and subtle tonal variation, particularly in the foliage and distant atmospheric effects. As part of Allom’s Constantinople series, this print is highly sought after for its artistic quality, historical context, and decorative appeal. Views of the Bosphorus are especially desirable, capturing one of the most iconic and strategically important waterways of the 19th-century world.
This piece stands out for its balanced composition, serene mood, and strong decorative presence, making it an excellent example from one of the most collectible travel publications of the period.
Condition report:
Good condition with age-related toning and light foxing, mainly in the margins. Minor handling wear. Plate mark visible. Overall a strong and well-preserved impression.
Framing tips:
Ideal for a museum-style presentation in a dark walnut or ebonized frame with a wide ivory mat to emphasize depth and contrast. For a lighter interior, a slim black or bronze frame with generous matting will highlight the fine engraving detail and panoramic composition.
Special note:
This is an original antique engraving, not a reproduction. All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The print is sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be on scale with the original.
Technique: Steel engraving
Maker: Thomas Allom & J.C. Bentley, England, circa 1836–1838
