The Kariye Djami

The Kariye Djami, published in 1967, stands as the definitive scholarly record of the Chora Church in Istanbul. Produced under the auspices of the Byzantine Institute of America, the work was commissioned to document the extensive restoration of the building's 14th-century frescoes and mosaics. Paul Atkins Underwood, who directed the archaeological and conservation efforts at the site for over a decade, led the monumental project of capturing the artistic interior before time and environmental factors could further diminish the intricate Byzantine iconography.

The set is celebrated for its technical rigor and depth, featuring exhaustive photographic plates and detailed architectural analysis. By providing a comprehensive visual and historical context for the Palaeologan Renaissance, Underwood ensured that the aesthetic intent of the original creators—specifically the theological narrative conveyed through the mosaics—remained accessible to researchers. Upon release, the work was widely lauded in academic circles for setting a new standard in archaeological publication and preservation documentation.