Santa Sofia c. 1891

John Singer Sargent's "Santa Sofia" is a striking oil painting that captures the grandeur of the iconic Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey. Completed around 1891, Sargent's masterful use of light and color evokes the cathedral's impressive architecture and the bustling scene of worshippers within. The painting's composition draws the viewer's eye upwards, emphasizing the soaring dome and intricate details of the basilica. The loose brushstrokes and vibrant hues characteristic of Sargent's style add a dynamic and atmospheric quality to this captivating work.