The artwork, titled “View of Constantinople,” was painted by Ivan Aivazovsky in 1849. This painting is a representation of the Romanticism movement and belongs to the cityscape genre.
The artwork depicts a serene, sunlit view of Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul). The composition shows the bustling harbor filled with various ships and boats, some gently sailing, while others are docked. On the left side, groups of people are seen interacting near the shore. The distant cityscape features architectural landmarks, partially enshrouded in a golden haze, giving the scene a dreamlike quality. The use of light and shadow captures the atmosphere of a tranquil yet lively seaport, faithfully conveying the vibrant spirit of this historic city. Through his exquisite brushwork and masterful handling of light, Aivazovsky has encapsulated the essence of Constantinople during that era, making the harbor appear as a luminous, almost ethereal space.
