Sultan Ahmet I Manuscript Collection and Safavid Period Bookbinding Art

Abstract

As an indicator of our civilization, manuscripts have been given great value for generations. For this reason, there are many manuscripts in our country that have continued to both production and collections. Some of these works are archived in manuscript libraries and some of them are in various collections. Many manuscripts are still waiting to be revealed. As unique treasures, our manuscripts are the most beautiful indicators of our culture that has evolved over the ages as documents that illuminate history. The Sultan Ahmet I collection is one of these unique collections. This collection is located in the Süleymaniye Manuscript Library and consists of manuscripts that feature the Safavid period. This collection is located in the Süleymaniye Manuscript Library and consists of manuscripts that feature the Safavid period.Considering the quality of the manuscripts used in the collection and the style of decoration, it is understood that they have similar characteristics with the large size Shiraz manuscripts prepared using valuable materials between 1580-1590. In these years, when the production of flamboyant and large-sized manuscripts reached its peak, bookbinding decorations were made with paints obtained from precious metals such as gold, silver and lapis lazuli.