The exhibition "From Constantinople to Istanbul: One City, Two Empires," hosted by the Victoria and Albert Museum in London starting November 7, revives aspects of the artistic and civilizational history of Istanbul over more than 16 centuries. The exhibition features a unique collection of more than 200 artistic and archaeological pieces drawn from both Byzantine and Ottoman heritage.
According to a review published by Jonathan Jones in the British Guardian on Wednesday, the exhibition addresses the artistic legacy of two empires that succeeded each other in the city, and the cultural and artistic interaction that took place between their different traditions. The exhibition covers the period from 330, when Constantinople became the capital of the Roman Empire under Emperor Constantine, until 1922.
The exhibits vary between mosaics, textiles, historical costumes, ceramics, jewelry, metalwork, sculptures, manuscripts, and paintings. Among the most prominent pieces on display is a mosaic from the Great Imperial Palace in Constantinople, Ottoman textiles from the 16th century, and artistic pieces reflecting the development of decorations and traditional crafts.
The exhibition also addresses the influence of Hagia Sophia's architecture on later Ottoman mosques, alongside aspects of daily life in the city, including bathhouse traditions, clothing, and household items. The exhibition continues at the Victoria and Albert Museum until May 9, 2027.
Source: Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA)
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