A gem-set ivory sculpture of an Ottoman sultan

Probably Southern Germany or Dieppe, 18th century, the base 19th century

The figure, which is dressed in a long, elaborately detailed, partially gem-set robe with ornamental designs along the edges and is wearing a turban adorned with a feather and further inlaid with gemstones, is mounted on an octagonal base of later date, made of alternating panels of ivory and tortoiseshell.

H. 25.5 cm (incl. base)

Provenance:
Private collection, Brussels


This figure represents the fascination with ‘Turquerie’ in 18th-century Europe, where Ottoman themes were in vogue in art, design, and architecture. This rage was also called ‘Turkomania’. The depiction of this sultan shows the blend of admiration and exoticism that characterised European views of the Ottoman Empire during this period. Such sculptures were often produced for wealthy collectors who sought high-quality representations of Eastern rulers, catering to the demand. The present sculpture was rather exclusive, for the gems (amongst which diamonds) are typically Ottoman-cut. They might well have been spoils from the Battle of Vienna, where the Ottomans were defeated after two months of siege in 1683.