Haghia Sophia (1910). SourceAn interesting juxtaposition of a simple structure in the foreground of this massive, historic mosque (originally built as a church in AD 537). This half crescent moon is a traditional Islamic symbol. Were these street posts located throughout the city, or just adjacent to the mosque (converted in the 15th century)?
The languages include Armenian, Ladino, English, Greek and Russian.Loaves are on display on the exterior of the building as well as in what appears to be a large, open window.Late 19th Century on the Grand Rue de Pera. SourceOne of the only women walking down the avenue. Is she local, or a traveler?Window washing above the boulevard. Do the passersby notice?
Fascinating collection of images that highlight the details. Window washer? Street post? Only woman on the street? Bread proves Istanbul / Constantinople have been at crossroads of east and west?
Think of the fun you’ll have guiding students to discover their own treasures.
The word “juxtaposition” couldn’t be more perfectly fitting for that contrast between Constantinople in general, and the gorgeous and massive Haghia Sophia in your first image. I almost have to imagine that whatever finances and options for labor they had were used exclusively for constructing the Haghia Sophia as opposed to general architecture? Some of the other buildings just look so indistinct and basic whereas the Mosque is an entirely different level. For example, until I read the caption, I legitimately thought that the “Bakery” was the store of a hat-maker and all those loaves of bread were hats! Haha!
Jacquie! I love the choice of photos you selected for this post. With the first picture of the Hagia Sophia, I think it was very observant of you to point out the Islamic crescent that is present in the photo. It further deepens the religious atmosphere at the time this photo was taken. This post really sparked my interest!
Fascinating collection of images that highlight the details. Window washer? Street post? Only woman on the street? Bread proves Istanbul / Constantinople have been at crossroads of east and west?
Think of the fun you’ll have guiding students to discover their own treasures.
The word “juxtaposition” couldn’t be more perfectly fitting for that contrast between Constantinople in general, and the gorgeous and massive Haghia Sophia in your first image. I almost have to imagine that whatever finances and options for labor they had were used exclusively for constructing the Haghia Sophia as opposed to general architecture? Some of the other buildings just look so indistinct and basic whereas the Mosque is an entirely different level. For example, until I read the caption, I legitimately thought that the “Bakery” was the store of a hat-maker and all those loaves of bread were hats! Haha!
Jacquie! I love the choice of photos you selected for this post. With the first picture of the Hagia Sophia, I think it was very observant of you to point out the Islamic crescent that is present in the photo. It further deepens the religious atmosphere at the time this photo was taken. This post really sparked my interest!