The artwork, titled “Night in Constantinople,” was created by Ivan Aivazovsky in the year 1886. It belongs to the Romanticism movement and is classified within the cityscape genre.
The artwork depicts a nocturnal scene in Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul), focusing on the serene and almost mystical atmosphere of the city by night. The dark, brooding sky contrasts with the illuminated buildings, notably highlighting a prominent mosque with its lit windows and elevated minarets. The calm water reflects the cityscape intricately, including the silhouette of a large ship anchored nearby and a smaller boat carrying figures towards the shore. The use of light and shadow is masterfully handled by Aivazovsky to evoke a sense of tranquility, yet the looming darkness adds a layer of mystery and depth to the scene. The details and brushwork encapsulate the Romanticism movement’s emphasis on emotional and dramatic representation, bringing to life the enchanting essence of Constantinople under the night sky.
