A ‘glassy-eyed’ view of İstanbul

And in truth, many of the structures, objects, places of worship, tastes, outfits, flowers and even animals of this city are reflected in this new Paşabahçe collection. This is the ninth special collection released by Paşabahçe since its initial 1997 “Ottoman Collection,” and it is made up of 32 items based on eight different themes. It is a special collection, with production limited to 1,299 pieces of each item. The objects include very special vases, lokum bowls, candle holders, bowls and other notable pieces, many embellished with special stones and gold engravings. The pieces in this collection that were inspired by some of the objects once used in the palaces, which still stand as architectural and historical symbols of İstanbul, are some of the most recognizable objects in this collection.

For example, the Çintemani Caftan Vase was inspired by a honey and red-colored caftan that belonged to Fatih Sultan Mehmet and boasted a striking Ottoman “çintemani” motif on it. This vase, made of glass and produced by hand, is gilded in 24 karat gold and decorated with special glass paint. Another object from this collection that attracts attention for its historical inspiration is the aptly titled Sorguç Mirror, which takes its lead from the special mirrors that used to adorn the plumed head ornaments atop the turbans of sultans or other high officials in Ottoman times. Then there is the special “Lokumluk,” a beautifully decorated lokum holder that is decorated with tulip motifs that pull together the ideas of a sweet treat associated with İstanbul as well as the flower so synonymous with the city. Another pieces worth taking a look at from this collection is the turquoise handmade vase decorated with the seagulls of İstanbul in white glass powder. When you also consider the many gorgeous stones and glass beads used in all of these designs, you will find it very hard to resist this new collection.