Lot 4077: Robertson, James and Felice Beato: The Sultan's Palace at Dolmabahce

The Sultan's Palace at Dolmabahçe (built 1843 - 1856), Constantinople. Circa 1856. Vintage gold-toned albumen print. 25,2 x 30,5 cm. Signed Robertson & Beato photog . in the negative in lower right, mounted to card (some foxing and buckling, minimal traces of use).
Abdülmecid I, the Empire's 31st Sultan, commissioned the construction of the Dolmabahçe Palace. Hacý Said Aga was responsible for the construction, and the project was realized by architects Garabet Balyan, his son Nigogayos Balyan and Evanis Kalfa. The design contains eclectic elements from the Baroque, Rococo and Neoclassical styles, combined with traditional Ottoman architecture to create a new synthesis. The palace layout and décor reflect the increasing influence of European styles and standards on Ottoman culture and art during the Tanzimat period. - Slight foxing in sky area, three retouched spots, otherwise a fine, detailed print in very good condition.
Lit.: Bahattin Öztuncay. The Photographers of Constantinople. Pioneers, Studios and Artists from 19th Century Istanbul. Istanbul 2006 (2nd edition), vol. 2, ill. p. 562.