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Tughra of Sultan Sulaiman the Magnificent, 16th century; Ottoman period (ca. 1280–1924)
Attributed to Istanbul, Turkey
Ink, opaque watercolors and gold on paper; H: 20 1/2 in. (52.1 cm) W: 25 3/8 in. (64.5 cm)
Rogers Fund, 1938 (38.149.1)
A peculiarly Ottoman Turkish phenomenon is the calligraphic "tughra" (handsign), unique to each sultan, which gives his name and titles and appears at the head of every firman (royal edict). The spectacularly bold calligraphy contrasts with the dense yet delicate flowering plants, arabesques, and floral scrolls.