ISTANBUL, Turkey / Türkiye — Exquisite Iznik tiles adorn the walls of the Harem Mosque (Harem Mescidi) in Topkapi Palace, Istanbul. These 17th-century ceramic masterpieces, featuring intricate floral motifs and calligraphy in vibrant blues, greens, and reds, exemplify the pinnacle of Ottoman decorative arts within this private prayer space for the imperial harem's most prominent women.
Photograph by David Coleman. The Iznik tiles adorning the Harem Mosque (Harem Mescidi) in Topkapi Palace, Istanbul, represent a pinnacle of Ottoman decorative arts and craftsmanship. These 17th-century ceramic masterpieces not only beautify the prayer space but also reflect the spiritual and aesthetic sensibilities of the Ottoman imperial court. Iznik tiles, named after the town of their production, are renowned for their vibrant colors and intricate designs. In the Harem Mosque, these tiles likely feature a palette dominated by the characteristic cobalt blue, turquoise, and emerald green, accented with the prized coral red, all set against a luminous white background. This white ground, achieved through a quartz-rich clay body, enhances the brilliance of the overlaid colors, creating a stunning visual effect. The decorative motifs on these tiles typically blend traditional Islamic geometric patterns with naturalistic floral designs, a hallmark of Ottoman art. Common elements include stylized tulips, carnations, roses, and hyacinths, often interwoven with serrated "saz" leaves. These floral patterns, symbolizing paradise, are particularly appropriate for a mosque setting. Complementing the floral designs, one might find abstract or geometric patterns such as the spiral 'Rumi' motifs or the three-dot 'çintamani' pattern. In a mosque context, these tiles likely also incorporate calligraphic elements, possibly Quranic verses or religious invocations. The integration of calligraphy with floral and geometric designs is a distinctive feature of Islamic art, beautifully exemplified in Iznik tilework. The presence of such high-quality tiles in the Harem Mosque underscores the importance of this space within the imperial harem. As a prayer hall for the sultan's mother, daughters, and other high-ranking women, no expense would have been spared in its decoration. The tiles serve not only an aesthetic purpose but also a spiritual one, creating an atmosphere of divine beauty con
Size: 6600px × 4405px
Location: Fatih, Istanbul, Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, Turkey / Türkiye
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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