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.


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