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Dick Osseman | all galleries >> Istanbul >> Mosques - Camiler >> Non-Sinan >> Hagia Sophia aka Ayasofya >> Mosaics in the Hagia Sophia > Istanbul Aya Sofya angel mosaic
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07-DEC-2004

Istanbul Aya Sofya angel mosaic

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This mosaic in the nave is the Archangel Gabriel wearing a divitision or undergarment, over which is thrown a chlamys or cloak of white silk; his great wings, reaching nearly to his feet, are of brightly-coloured feathers, chiefly green, blue and white. In his right hand he holds a staff, in his left a crystal globe, through which can be seen his thumb (Info from Strolling through Istanbul, 1989).

Nikon D70
0.62s f/8.0 at 75.0mm full exif

other sizes: small medium large original auto
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Guest 25-Aug-2005 20:03
Dear Sir, it is Gabriel the Archangel that you have caught in your beautiful picture.
It is also from the posticonoclastic period ( that is after the Irene empress officially restored the Cult of Icons in 843 , so figurative representations of Divinities was no longer banned ) and it is known for its sensuality. Unfortunately, the representation of the other Archangel seems lost.
The pictures are awsome!
Florin