Artwork
Turkish sultans, sultanas and other historical figures

Turkish sultans, sultanas and other historical figures is a print by the Baroque artist Unknown. It dates from 1600 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
The text around the image includes the year 1595 and a Latin phrase, which might hint at power or leadership.
This is a black-and-white portrait of a man with a dark beard and mustache. He wears a tall, pointed hat and a high-collared robe with detailed patterns. The background is plain, but the edges of the frame have small symbols like a crescent moon and stars.
The text around the image includes the year 1595 and a Latin phrase, which might hint at power or leadership. The print style looks old, with careful shading to show his face clearly.
To see more like this, check out the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Overview
This 1600 print, of unknown authorship, depicts a group portrait of Ottoman rulers and historical figures, including Mehmed III, with integrated identifying elements and a title.
Subject & Meaning
The central figure, likely Mehmed III, is portrayed with distinctive Ottoman attire—a tall, pointed hat and high-collared, patterned robe—symbolizing his rank. Surrounding figures include other sultans, sultanas, and historical personalities.
Technique & Style
Executed in black-and-white, the print features meticulous shading, particularly on the central figure's face, indicative of traditional early 17th-century printmaking techniques.
History & Provenance
Dated inconsistencies exist between the print's attributed year (1600) and the embedded text (1595). The Latin phrase suggests themes of power or leadership, though the artist remains anonymous.
Context
Comparable works can be found in the Victoria and Albert Museum, suggesting a broader European interest in Ottoman imagery during this period.
Artist & collection



















