Byzantine Constantinople - Essay Example

Order # 308230 Answers to Questions The Basilica Cistern, Istanbul, Turkey A. Basilica Cistern in Istanbul, Turkey was believed to have been builtin AD 532. These 6th century monument illustrates the motif and composition which was largely of stones, a continuity of antiquated architecture. The century's cylindrical columns, adorned with leaves of the vines characterizes early Christian influences (Alpaslan 190) B. Basilica Cistern in Istanbul exemplifies the influence of the ruling party's taste of Anatolia. Rows of pillars which were then prominently called colonnades adorned with characteristic cross and encircled with vines and leaves marks and lines the spaces that served as pathways of the members of the royal family. However, the structures are also indicative of the insecurities felt by the royal family members despite their feelings of need to show status (Mango 39) C. The Basilica cistern considerably reveals political power resting on religiously affiliated personalities, but, that the authority does not render the ruling party immune to the vulnerabilities of the century, in as much as subjugation was the trend. The cistern itself apparently allows unobserved entrance and exit of ruling parties to and from their palace which were eventually turned into huge family mausoleums (Alpaslan 192). D. The architecture is a mixture of a typical Roman design for the famous colonnades and extensive spaces that indicates reputation, and those of the Greeks which are the rolling tendrils of vines with leaves another symbol of power and status. In addition, Christian cross carved on columns can not be mistaken for the influence of religion on the design. E. The Basilica cistern is an impressive mirror of power, money, religiosity and art in the 6th century. 2. Hagia Sophia, Istanbul Turkey A. The Byzantinian church, Hagia Sophia in Istanbul Turkey is lavishly decorated with mosaic of murals of cherubs and holy people who have long gone but was considered as sacred. The edifice was believed to be constructed in AD 532. This was designed by architects Anthemius of Tralles and Isidrous of Miletus. During the Ottoman Empire, the church was converted into an Islamic Mosque. The decorations were all carefully plastered. This was to hide the images as they were a taboo to Islam. But, the plasters were torn off in 1935 to reveal the original images which were grandiose (Jack 75). B. Hagia Sophia was named as Christian Church of Divine Wisdom apparently because of the internal ornaments depicting colorful images of angels and saints constructed under the Roman Emperor who ruled Turkey. But, it was actually a tomb apparently designed for the Emperor and his family's mausoleum. C. The lavishness of Hagia Sophia is a reflection of Roman power in Constantinople. Additionally, authority is coupled to Christian religious affinity. D. The general architecture depicts the complexity of the ideas of the architects in both the interior and exterior part of Hagia Sophia. The posh internal decoration which is a mixture of colors and images represents an abode only meant for royalties. The focal part of the edifice are the vaults right under the biggest dome held by arching pillars and decorated by images of seraphs, saints and flowers in a rainbow of colors. Much similar to what most people usually call as paradise on land. E. Hagia Sophia is a total reflection of a creative mind or minds of people living in the past. It is also an edifice reflective of human desire to dwell in a sanctuary where only beauty exists even after death. 3. The Topkapi palace, Istanbul Turkey A. The Topkapi palace was the imperial palace of the Ottomans in 1465 while the sultans ruled Turkey. As the structure was intended for residence, its size and decorations emits an aura of power. Construction of the huge edifice took place in the 15th century. According to literatures, the palace is actually constructed with varied materials influenced by old structures in Turkey which is mostly of stones. Decorative designs that pervade predominantly are those of plants and fish scales on the divider panels (Alpaslan 192). B. Topkapi palace is another monument in Turkey that projects mixed influences on the current culture of people. Necipoglu (7) mentioned the article of a certain Ioli Kalavrezou that stated the presence of a remnant of an arm of Saint John the Baptist in Topkapi palace. Ousterhout (149) mentioned that a drawing dated 1750 revealed that the dark stone from the tomb of King Vladislav and the stone of the unction, a remnant from the tomb of Christ were also seen in the palace C. Topkapi palace in Istanbul Turkey is an edifice that reflect the Sultans of the Ottoman Islamic Empire preeminence in the 15th century in what was then widely known as Constantinople. D. The interior and exterior architecture of Topkapi palace in Istanbul Turkey is reminiscent of the diverse influences of the past. It represents supremacy as its spaces are wide and defined by arching characteristically designed columns. E. The impressively vast edifice for an abode may hardly be duplicated in the current century due to the unavailability of similar construction materials, in addition to changes in preferences. 4. The Rustem Pasha Mosque, Istanbul, Turkey A. Rustem Pasha Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey was and exemplary work of art of Sinan for Rustem Pasha the highest Muslim officer and the son-in-law of Suleiman (Dwight 49). The edifice was constructed in 1561 (Oz 30). B. Rustem Pasha Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey is a living monument that illustrates what supremacy can do with wealth and influence at hand. Suleiman was the ruling sultan of the time, so wealth of the empire must be at his disposal. C. Rustem Pasha Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey is definitely an Islamic Mosque which portrays an impression of subordinate power in contrast to the Suleymaniye Mosque. D. Rustem Pasha Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey is a comparatively small Mosque. Sinan made use of tiles as a tapestry of colors to line and cover the cornice, mihrab, and windows of the Mosque. The doorway up to the interior hall and the walls are all overlaid with tiles designed by Sinan. On either side of the Mosque where the dome is in placed, two tall, but, narrow panels are structured in between two windows in support of the dome (Wight 50). E. Rustem Pasha Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey is another impressive structure despite its smaller size. The tile work exudes the artistic drive of Sinan to make use of cheaper materials that were locally produced in Turkey. 5. Suleymaniye Mosque, Istanbul Turkey A. The Suleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul Turkey was constructed in 1550 with the signature design of an engineer named Sinan. The edifice was completed in 1557 (Elias 11). The ambience of such a massive mosque is calm and casual. There were no furniture's in sight inside and outside the building. Some Muslims in prayer were only seated on the carpet that covers the zones for solemn prayers. The Mosque is surrounded by other structures which serve as public bath, learning center, hospital, kitchen and the mausoleum of the Suleiman family. B. The Suleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul Turkey besides being projected as a monument of art illustrates the family and societal values of the generation. This can be gleaned from the usage and purpose of the structures within a complex. C. The Suleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul Turkey reverberate the supremacy of Suleiman during his reign as well as his values as a Muslim leader. D. The exterior and interior architecture of Suleymaniye Mosque is much similar to that of Hagia Sophia church which was set as a model. However, unlike the Hagia Sophia church, the Suleymaniye Mosque does not have vaults or catacombs. The space is designed purely for congregational prayers. All the spaces inside the Mosque are plastered with tile-work which is exceptionally gorgeous. Circular calligraphic designs permeate some of the tiles. These are actually Arabic verses from the Qur'an that the faithful may recite while in prayer. Some tiles are so designed so as to appear like curtains hanging on the wall. The prominent arching pillars that support the dome are likewise exquisitely plastered with tiles (Oz 29). Most visitors are also amazed at the Helmholtz resonators mentioned by Kayili in 2000 which gives out some acoustic sound effects at the slight touch of the pillars (Su and Yilmazer). E. The Suleymaniye Mosque not only reveals the values of Sultan Suleiman, but, also the complexities of architecture and arts in the past. The structure and the decorations have not been duplicated apparently due to changing values. 6. The Blue Mosque, Istanbul Turkey A. The Blue Mosque in Istanbul Turkey is the famous Sultan Ahmed I's Mosque built in 1608-1614. It is another structure that was constructed with Hagia Sophia as the model by Ahmed I. The entire Mosque by size is bigger that the Suleymaniye. However, the characteristic blue colored tile that permeates the surfaces of the Mosque defines it as another Islamic structure. The patio with a fountain creates a more vibrant external atmosphere as compared to Suleymaniye (Hutton 298). B. The Blue Mosque in Istanbul Turkey is one monument that reflects the preference in color of the prophet Muhammed. Apparently, the pervasive blue color was also the preference of Ahmed I. Despite the size however, the Mosque depicts simpler architectural concepts gauging from the monochromatic usage of color. C. The Blue Mosque with its size, simplicity, and mixture of blue and white tiles is more reflective of the Islamic idea over harmony with the color of the sky. But, the blue color similar to the sky may also be indicative of magnificence, influence and authority. D. Hutton (305) mentioned the feedback of Mary Wortley Montagu when she describes the Mosque as the most impressive and magnificent edifice she ever saw. She must have been attracted by the appropriate combination of blue and white tiles that covers most of the surfaces apart from some marble in the interior of the Mosque. At the entrance, the arching pillars are adorned with a complex of patterns, mixed with mother of pearls (Hutton 305). E. The Blue Mosque is one exquisite work of art that echoes influence in the midst of humility. 7. Ibrahim Pasha Sarai/Museum of Turkish and Islamic arts, Istanbul Turkey A. Ibrahim Pasha Sarai/Museum of Turkish and Islamic arts in Istanbul Turkey was constructed under the supervision and design of Ahmet Aga in 1603. This structure was dedicated to an officer in the sultanate named Ibrahim Pasha. He was the husband of the daughter of Murat III (Oz 33). And similar to other Mosque in structural designs and tile works, the edifice is also exceptionally remarkable. B. Ibrahim Pasha Sarai/Museum of Turkish and Islamic arts reflects the values of Murat III on the preservation and presentation of the affluent Turkish tradition that must be handed to many generations. C. Ibrahim Pasha Sarai/Museum of Turkish and Islamic arts particularly reflects Islamic religious values. The edifice likewise conveys authority. D. Ibrahim Pasha Sarai/Museum of Turkish and Islamic arts building is basically made of stones. The building is encircled with 4 patios. The Museum section occupies the main service hall of the Mosque, fronting the 2nd patio (Republic of Turkey, Ministry of Culture and Tourism). E. Many Mosque have been known to be used also for educational purposes, so Ibrahim Pasha Sarai/Museum of Turkish and Islamic arts is obviously a great venue for learning the history, arts and culture of Turkey. 8. The Hippodrome, Istanbul, Turkey A. The Hippodrome in Istanbul, Turkey is at the center of what was then called Constantine city (Petersen 128). The hippodrome is Atmeydan in Turk which is just beside the Hagia Sophia Church and lingered over time (Petersen 129), since the space was allocated for equestrians before the subjugation of the Ottomans'. The area was set aside initially for sports competitions in 196 by Severus, the Roman Emperor, and eventually developed by Constantine (Anatolia). B. Historically, as the hippodrome was said to have existed beside the Hagia Sophia church at its inception (Petersen 128), the area was expanded to accommodate more viewers of competitions. The area then is reflective of showing off male strength. C. The Hippodrome's existence is associated to the influence of the Romans over Constantinople considering that it was initiated by the Roman Emperor Severus. Thus, supremacy is conveyed through any sports done in the arena. D. The Hippodrome has been bedecked with symbols reflecting the eminence of the of the head of state. The decorations consisted of Egyptian obelisk, Column of Constantine Porphyrogenetus in 912, the Serpentine column, and the fountain of Wilhelm II (Anatolia). E. The Hippodrome is more like the modern stadium where sports and other big events are usually held. 9. Covered Bazaar, Istanbul Turkey A. The covered Bazaar in Istanbul Turkey was erected in 1701 under the Ottoman Empire (Petersen 129). B. The covering of the Bazaar in Istanbul Turkey under the Ottoman Empire tells us that marketing was a means to the country's economic prosperity. C. The covered Bazaar in Istanbul Turkey reflects the religious ideology of Islam which is commonly known to be preference of trade over any other professions. D. The covered Bazaar in Istanbul Turkey is located next to Eminonu and Serkeci. The bazaar encircles the bedestan which was founded by Mehmet II. The bedestan is covered by 15 domes (Petersen 129). E. The covered Bazaar in Istanbul Turkey is reflective of the hard-working trait of the people who contributed to the economic prosperity of the nation. 10. Ataturk palace, Istanbul, Turkey A. The Ataturk palace in Istanbul, Turkey was the residence of Mustafa Kemal who became the Emperial Osmali in 1908 (Jackh 3). But, Dolmabahce palace as it is known was constructed in 1843 for Sultan Abdulmecit (Istanbul Tours Online). B. The Ataturk palace which is definitely a work of art tells us that edifices in the Turkeys past regimes were valued unless the structures itself gives way to natural causes. Also, Turks values quality construction materials for buildings to transcend minor calamities. C. The Ataturk palace reflects the Islamic value of living within a community near a Mosque for the male believers to attend congregational prayers at regular intervals. The number of rooms and baths gives ample space for believers to dwell with comfort. D. The Ataturk palace according to Istanbul Tours Online has 2,700 windows, 285, rooms, 43 halls, and 6 bathrooms. The interiors are reflective of flamboyance and wealth. The palace is vastly bedecked with baccarat crystals, expensive portraits, posh furniture, costly carpets, and silk curtains. Considering the vastness of the palace, the ruler divided the structure into a receiving space for guest, and a harem for family members (Istanbul Tours Online). E. The Ataturk palace is a symbol of opulence, aristocracy, and authority on the land of the Turks. Bibliography Alexander, Paul J. The Patriarch Nicephorus of Constantinople: Ecclesiastical Policy and Image Worship in the Byzantine Empire. Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1958. Alpaslan, Sema. "Chapter Twelve Architectural Sculpture in Constantinople and the Influence of the Capital in Anatolia." Byzantine Constantinople: Monuments, Topography, and Everyday Life. Ed. Nevra Necipoglu. Leiden, Netherlands: Brill, 2001. 187-201. Dwight, H. G. Constantinople: Old and New. New York: Charles Scribner's Sons. 1915. Elias, Jamal J. Islam. London: Routledge, 1999. Flood, Finbarr Barry. The Great Mosque of Damascus: Studies on the Makings of an Umayyad Visual Culture. Boston: Brill, 2001. Hutton, William Holden. Constantinople: The Story of the Old Capital of the Empire. London: J. M. Dent & Sons, 1921. Jackh, Ernest. The Rising Crescent: Turkey Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow. New York: Farrar & Rinehart, 1944. Magdalino, Paul. "Chapter Four Aristocratic Oikoi in the Tenth and Eleventh Regions of Constantinople." Byzantine Constantinople: Monuments, Topography, and Everyday Life. Ed. Nevra Necipoglu. Leiden, Netherlands: Brill, 2001. 53-69. Mango, Marlia Mundell. "Chapter Three The Porticoed Street at Constantinople." Byzantine Constantinople: Monuments, Topography, and Everyday Life. Ed. Nevra Necipoglu. Leiden, Netherlands: Brill, 2001. 29-51. Matschke, Klaus-Peter. "Chapter Twenty Builders and Building in Late Byzantine Constantinople." Byzantine Constantinople: Monuments, Topography, and Everyday Life. Ed. Nevra Necipoglu. Leiden, Netherlands: Brill, 2001. 315-328. Melman, Seymour. Dynamic Factors in Industrial Productivity. New York: Wiley, 1956. Questia. 30 June 2009. Necipoglu, Nevra, ed. Byzantine Constantinople: Monuments, Topography, and Everyday Life. Leiden, Netherlands: Brill, 2001. Ousterhout, Robert. "Chapter Nine Architecture, Art and Komnenian Ideology at the Pantokrator Monastery." Byzantine Constantinople: Monuments, Topography, and Everyday Life. Ed. Nevra Necipoglu. Leiden, Netherlands: Brill, 2001. 133-150. Oz, Tahsin. Turkish Ceramics. Ankara: Turkish Press, Broadcasting and Tourist Department, 1954. evenko, Ihor. "Chapter Twenty-Two Concluding Remarks." Byzantine Constantinople: Monuments, Topography, and Everyday Life. Ed. Nevra Necipoglu. Leiden, Netherlands: Brill, 2001. 345-349. Schnetz, Martina. The Healing Flow: Artistic Expression in Therapy : Creative Arts and the Process of Healing : An Image/Word Approach Inquiry. London: Jessica Kingsley, 2005. Questia. 30 June 2009. Schreiner, Peter. "Chapter Thirteen John Malaxos (16th Century) and His Collection of Antiquitates Constantinopolitanae*." Byzantine Constantinople: Monuments, Topography, and Everyday Life. Ed. Nevra Necipoglu. Leiden, Netherlands: Brill, 2001. 203-214. Su, Zuhre, and Semiha Yilmazer. "The Acoustical Characteristics of the Kocatepe Mosque in Ankara, Turkey." Architectural Science Review 51.1 (2008): 21+. Tunay, Mehmet I. "Chapter Fourteen Byzantine Archaeological Findings in Istanbul During the Last Decade." Byzantine Constantinople: Monuments, Topography, and Everyday Life. Ed. Nevra Necipoglu. Leiden, Netherlands: Brill, 2001. 217-231. Website Anatolia. Hippodrome. http://www.anatolia.com/anatolia/2001/05/journey/hippodrome.asp rets: 7/1/09. Istanbul Tours Online. http://www.istanbultoursonline.com/istanbul/dolmabahce_palace.htm7/1/09. Istanbul Travel Guide. Underground Cistern. http://www.istanbultravelguide.net/undergroundcistern.htm rets 6/30/09. Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts. http://www.istanbulstay.com/Museumofturkishandislamicarts.htm rets 6/30/09. Republic of Turkey, Ministry of Culture and Tourism http://www.kultur.gov.tr/EN/BelgeGoster.aspx17A16AE30572D313679A66406202CCB0C50878E3407BD0BB rets: 7/1/09 Read More