Alt-Christliche Baudenkmale von Constantinopel vom V. bis XII. Jahrhundert.

An excellent example of this celebrated second edition, limited to only a few copies, of this important work on christian architecture in Constantinople.

The present work is considered to this day a milestone in the study of style and design of Orthodox churches in Constantinople. Furthermore, the current edition is mentioned as being a "luxury publication issued at the expense of the Prussian government [...] costing 240 francs each" already at the time of its publication in 1854 (Brunet, 103).

'Salzenberg was a student of Karl Friedrich von Schinkel and practised as an architect at Berlin. In 1848 he travelled to Constantinople to take advantage of Fossati's restoration to the fabric of St. Sophia, in order to examine the building closely. Salzenberg spent five months in Constantinople and was able to make detailed drawings of mosaics in the church which had been brought to light during the works in progress. These mosaics were later covered over with plaster and by 1850 none were visible. Salzenberg's important work remains the major source of information about the mosaics of St. Sophia', Blackmer.

One volume (of two), large folio (67 x 51 cm). Plate volume only, tinted lithographed plate of a Byzantine cross, chromolithographed title, and 39 numbered plates, including 13 chromolithographs, 4 tinted lithographs and 22 engravings (of which two double page plates), with an additional lithograph of Saint Sophia bound in; some light spotting, mainly marginal. Without the 2 leaves of list of plates. Publisher's printed boards with stylized Greek cross on front board, blue cloth spine; board edges slightly rubbed.

Blackmer 1483; Brunet V, 103.