Religion · 20th century
€ 340
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Good antique condition with age-related toning, minor handling wear, and light edge wear consistent with age. Colors remain fresh and attractive. Please study the images carefully.
Islamic Calligraphy Dedication Page, Ottoman Ornament Chromolithograph, 1924
This elegant original chromolithograph served as the dedication page to L'Art Islamique en Orient – IIe Partie, a celebrated folio on Islamic art and architecture published in Constantinople (Istanbul) in 1924 by architect Alexandre M. Raymond. Combining refined Arabic calligraphy with intricate Ottoman-inspired ornament, the composition represents one of the most decorative and visually striking designs from the publication.
The print features a monumental central panel of Arabic calligraphy executed in gold against a soft blue ground, surrounded by a richly detailed border of interlacing arabesques and stylized floral motifs. The delicate green and gold ornament reflects centuries of Islamic decorative traditions, while the harmonious color palette gives the sheet a remarkably modern appearance despite its historical origins.
Below the calligraphy is a dedication panel honoring Charles R. Crane, the American diplomat, philanthropist, and patron of cultural and educational initiatives in the Middle East and Asia. The French dedication acknowledges Crane's support for the preservation and appreciation of Turkish decorative arts, providing an interesting historical connection between East and West during the early twentieth century.
Alexandre Raymond devoted much of his career to documenting the architectural and decorative heritage of the Ottoman world. His luxurious folios remain among the most important visual records of Islamic ornament published during the period. This dedication page stands apart from the architectural plates by functioning as a complete decorative artwork, combining calligraphy, geometry, floral ornament, and historical significance in a single composition.
The sheet displays beautifully and works particularly well in both traditional and contemporary interiors. The subtle blue and green tones, combined with the intricate ornamental border, make it an appealing piece for collectors of Islamic art, Ottoman design, architectural history, calligraphy, and decorative prints.
This is an original 1924 chromolithograph, not a reproduction. We sell the print unframed. Any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only.
Condition: Good antique condition with age-related toning, minor handling wear, and light edge wear consistent with age. Colors remain fresh and attractive. Please study the images carefully.
Framing tips: Particularly attractive in a dark walnut or ebonized frame with a warm ivory museum mat. The blue, green, and gold palette pairs beautifully with contemporary interiors as well as traditional settings inspired by Islamic, Mediterranean, or Ottoman design.
Technique: Chromolithograph
Maker: Alexandre M. Raymond, Constantinople (Istanbul), 1924
