On the picture: The ‘mihrab’ (prayer niche that indicates the direction of the Kaaba in Mecca).
Its decoration (integrating numerous calligraphic inscriptions) was refreshed recently, but dates from the last quarter of the 19th century, when the mosque was restored after the 1855 Bursa earthquake. It was executed in a Classic Ottoman style, following examples of the 16th-17th century.
One exception however: the curtains in the lower part of the central section are a motif specific to the 19th century ‘Turkish Baroque’, which was influenced by European Neo-Classicism (and more specifically here by the French ‘Nouvel Empire’ style).

Note: The term ‘Turkish Baroque’ is a general one; if necessary, more specific terms are used: ‘Barok’ (= Neo-Baroque), ‘Rokoko’ (= Neo-Rococo) or ‘Ampir’ (= ‘Nouvel Empire’).

Correspondent: J.M.Criel, Antwerpen.