Artwork
Rikaphasekisi, or stirrup-holder to the Sultan
Rikaphasekisi, or stirrup-holder to the Sultan is a watercolor work on paper by the Romanesque artist Anonymous Greek artist. It dates from 1809 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
Rikaphasekisi, or stirrup-holder to the Sultan, is a watercolour work from a series commissioned by Stratford Canning during his early diplomatic tenure in Istanbul, capturing aspects of Ottoman life and institutions.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, a stirrup-holder, reflects Canning's broad interest in documenting Ottoman customs and official roles, providing a glimpse into the imperial hierarchy of the time.
Technique & Style
The artwork blends traditional Ottoman watercolour techniques, characterized by dense and vibrant pigments, with European perspectives on representation and spatial depth.
History & Provenance
Originally part of a large series commissioned by Stratford Canning (later Viscount Stratford de Redcliffe) around 1808, the set was later acquired by the Victoria and Albert Museum in 1895 from Canning's daughter, Charlotte.
Context
Created during a period of cultural exchange, the work benefited from the artistic cross-pollination in Istanbul, with possible influences from the circle of Konstantin Kapidagli, though the artist remains unnamed.
Artist & collection
![A Pasha travelling with his escort[?], by Anonymous Greek artist](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/anonymous-greek-artist--a-pasha-travelling-with-his-escort--01de32b8fcf30843-w320.webp)
