Intérieur de la Mosquée El-Aksa, Jérusalem

Cartographer / Artist: Maison Bonfils (Félix Bonfils)

Date Created: c. 1880

Medium: Albumen silver print on card mount

Physical Dimensions: 10.7 × 11.4 inches

Geographic Scope: Jerusalem, Palestine / Ottoman Empire

Archive Catalog ID: fp2-img-3399

Provenance: The Dr. Joseph R. Rubini Archive

Collection: Bonfils Albumen Prints

An evocative 19th-century albumen photograph capturing the grand hypostyle interior of the Al-Aqsa Mosque on the Haram al-Sharif (Temple Mount) in Jerusalem. The perspective runs along the primary nave, highlighting the impressive row of classical Corinthian spolia columns supporting an arcade of pointed arches and ornately carved wooden tie-beams. Suspended from the beams are traditional glass oil lamps and metal chandeliers. In the background, intricate mosaics, architectural relief carvings, and calligraphy are visible surrounding the elevated bays leading towards the mihrab. A simple wooden bench or takht rests on the left foreground floor. This view offers valuable architectural and documentary evidence of the sanctuary's structural state and interior furnishings under late Ottoman administration prior to major 20th-century renovations.

Condition: Warm sepia tones with good mid-tone clarity across architectural elements.. Faint surface scratch near the base of the central column; slight fading along margins consistent with age.. Period photographer's negative inventory number and title faintly visible in the lower margin.

Intérieur de la Mosquée El-Aksa, Jérusalem
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Bonfils Albumen Printsc. 1880

Intérieur de la Mosquée El-Aksa, Jérusalem

By Maison Bonfils (Félix Bonfils)

Archival Overview & Authenticated Facts

Authentic period c. 1880 Albumen silver print on card mount by Maison Bonfils (Félix Bonfils) documenting Jerusalem, Palestine / Ottoman Empire. Measures 10.7 × 11.4 inches. Verified original holding from the Dr. Joseph R. Rubini Archive.

Acquisition Status$70
Dr. Joseph R. Rubini Archive • 100% Guaranteed Authentic Original

Physical Specifications & Details

Medium & Technique
Albumen silver print on card mount
Sheet / Plate Size
10.7 × 11.4 inches
Date / Era
c. 1880
Geographic Scope
Jerusalem, Palestine / Ottoman Empire
Archive Catalog ID
fp2-img-3399
Provenance
The Dr. Joseph R. Rubini Archive
Preservation & Condition Report
  • Warm sepia tones with good mid-tone clarity across architectural elements.
  • Faint surface scratch near the base of the central column; slight fading along margins consistent with age.
  • Period photographer's negative inventory number and title faintly visible in the lower margin.

Historical Context & Archival Analysis

An evocative 19th-century albumen photograph capturing the grand hypostyle interior of the Al-Aqsa Mosque on the Haram al-Sharif (Temple Mount) in Jerusalem. The perspective runs along the primary nave, highlighting the impressive row of classical Corinthian spolia columns supporting an arcade of pointed arches and ornately carved wooden tie-beams. Suspended from the beams are traditional glass oil lamps and metal chandeliers. In the background, intricate mosaics, architectural relief carvings, and calligraphy are visible surrounding the elevated bays leading towards the mihrab. A simple wooden bench or takht rests on the left foreground floor. This view offers valuable architectural and documentary evidence of the sanctuary's structural state and interior furnishings under late Ottoman administration prior to major 20th-century renovations.

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Every map, fine print, and photograph offered by Rubini Antique Maps and Prints is an authenticated, 100% original period work produced during its stated publication date or era. We never sell modern reproductions or digital facsimiles. All cataloged items carry verified provenance originating from the historical collection of Dr. Joseph R. Rubini, backed by complete historical attribution.