About this sheet
Date: 1924 (after the original monument of 1550–1556)
Origin: Paris, France
Medium: Color lithograph on paper
Dimensions: Approximately 49 x 35.5 cm (19.3 x 14 inches)
Unframed. Any framed images shown are for display inspiration only.
An original architectural lithograph depicting the celebrated mihrab of the Süleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul, one of the supreme achievements of Ottoman architecture and the masterpiece of the imperial architect Mimar Sinan. The plate was published in Alexandre M. Raymond’s monumental folio L’Art Islamique en Orient – IIe Partie, among the most important early twentieth-century studies of Islamic decorative and architectural arts.
Completed between 1550 and 1556 under the patronage of Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent, the Süleymaniye Mosque represents the height of classical Ottoman design. Raymond’s rendering faithfully records the extraordinary architectural composition of the sanctuary wall, with its monumental pointed arch, refined stonework, Qur'anic inscriptions, intricate tile panels, and richly ornamented floral decoration inspired by the great Iznik ceramic tradition.
The composition combines harmonious geometry with the luminous palette that characterizes Ottoman imperial interiors. Delicate blues, soft greens, muted reds, and pale stone tones create an atmosphere of serenity while emphasizing the sophisticated balance between architecture, ornament, and sacred space.
The print serves both as an important historical document and as a highly decorative work in its own right. It appeals to collectors of Islamic art, Ottoman history, architectural drawings, and early twentieth-century design publications. Original plates from *L’Art Islamique en Orient* remain increasingly scarce, particularly those depicting the major monuments of Istanbul and the works of Mimar Sinan.
Its elegant proportions and refined coloration make it exceptionally suitable for contemporary interiors, especially those influenced by Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, or classical architectural traditions.
Condition:
Good antique condition with age-appropriate toning, occasional foxing, minor edge wear, and light handling marks consistent with a work on paper over one hundred years old. Colors remain delicate and well-preserved. Please study photographs carefully, as they form part of the description.
Framing Recommendations:
Sold unframed. We recommend museum-quality conservation framing using an ebonized or dark walnut frame with a generous ivory or warm stone-colored mat and UV-protective glazing. The subtle presentation enhances the refined Ottoman palette and preserves the architectural precision of the image. Any framed visualizations are intended for inspiration only.
Keywords:
Alexandre M Raymond, L'Art Islamique en Orient, Süleymaniye Mosque, Suleymaniye Mosque, Istanbul, Constantinople, Ottoman Empire, Mimar Sinan, Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, Süleyman I, Ottoman architecture, Islamic architecture, mihrab, mosque interior, Iznik tiles, Ottoman tilework, Arabic calligraphy, Islamic ornament, sacred architecture, Turkish art, antique architectural print, original 1924 lithograph, Islamic decorative arts, Middle Eastern art, Ottoman interior design, collector print, museum quality, architectural study, Islamic heritage, Istanbul landmarks, unframed, framed images for inspiration only.
