Sema Yurtseven

Landscapes, ceremonies such as enthronement in the palace, circumcision, weddings, and hunting scenes are among the subjects covered in Turkish miniature art. In this regard, Ottoman miniatures are considered historical documents, as they provide information about daily life, clothing, and rituals during the period. This miniature, which is entirely a product of the artist’s own imagination and creativity, is a hunting scene, and includes rich elements that provide information on a variety of subjects. The artist was inspired by the hunting stories and experiences of Ottoman Sultans. The hunters in this scene are dressed in traditional Ottoman hunting attire that was worn by sultans and are using traditional Ottoman hunting equipment. Animals that were hunted at the time are also depicted in the scene. The miniature contains some micro-details that can only be seen by closely inspecting the original artwork with a magnifying glass. The artist has used real gold in the yellow sections of the piece.

The miniature artist, Sema Yurtseven, has uniquely designed and applied this harmonious and coherent miniature art. In the scene, Sultanahmet Mosque, also known as a Blue Mosque, was built between 1609 and 1617 Sultan Ahmet. It was built not only for as a mosque but also as a social complex across the Hagia Sophia. Hagia Sophia represents a brilliant moment in Byzantine architecture and art. It was built between 532 – 537 in Byzantine Empire in its capital, Constantinople (now Istanbul). The artist wanted to demonstrate Sultanahmet Mosque as a creating balance.

As you may see, there are many micro-details which can only be seen magnifying glass.

The miniature artist, Sema Yurtseven, intricately applies the detailed and precise techniques of miniature art. Through her works, she provides a visual account of the most notable historical architectural sites which have been a source of comfort and inspiration.

The precision of the details in the architectural geniuses, which are only visible through a magnifying glass, are reflected in the mastery of the miniature art.

All architectural sites are some of featured buildings in Istanbul: the Maiden Tower, Galata Tower, Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet Mosque, Suleymaniye Mosque. The history of oldest building, Hagia Sophia, dated back to 6th century.