Our Story

Our Story

Our story begins in Istanbul, Türkiye — the birthplace of Gülbün Mesara, a master artist and revered teacher of traditional Turkish arts. Widely regarded as one of the greatest practitioners of this heritage, Ms. Mesara’s work centers on intricate floral compositions, calligraphic forms, and illuminated designs rooted in centuries-old aesthetics.

Her collection features roses, tulips, and delicate floral arrangements inspired by motifs found in historic manuscripts, bookbindings, architectural ornaments, tiles, and decorative arts crafted from plaster, stone, and wood. The designs draw from a rich period of artistic expression, spanning from the mid-16th to the late 19th century.

The Timeless Beauty of Turkish Traditional Art: A Journey Through Centuries of Craftsmanship

Delicate gold leaf glinting on ancient manuscripts…….
Intricately painted scenes that feel at once mythical and real……

These are the hallmarks of the nearly lost arts of Turkish illumination and miniature painting.

Tezhip—literally “ornamenting with gold”—is a centuries-old artistic tradition distinguished by gold or brightly colored ornamental motifs that frame calligraphy in sacred texts, imperial decrees, and treasured literary works. Each piece stands as a testament to patience, precision, and an enduring eye for beauty that transcends time. Conversely, miniature painting—known as minyatür—is centered on storytelling. These vibrant, small-scale illustrations bring to life scenes from history, mythology, daily life, and epic tales.

Rooted in Ottoman cultural traditions spanning more than 7 centuries, Tezhip and Minyatür represent artistic traditions that extend far beyond ornate decoration. They are visual expressions of reverence, storytelling, and timeless craftsmanship. Ottoman miniatures were primarily produced as illustrations for manuscripts, often commissioned by the Ottoman court, and served as a visual record of important events, social customs, cultural practices, and popular motifs.

Historically, becoming an Ottoman miniature artist required 20 years of disciplined, structured training under the tutelage of an experienced master, together with an unwavering dedication, and a deep reverence for tradition. The apprentice was taught not only the meticulous techniques of the craft, but also the quiet discipline and reverence needed to illuminate with care and purpose. Each brushstroke, each curve of gold, was a meditation—an act of preserving beauty for generations to come.

Artistry That Stands the Test of Time

The making of a Turkish illumination or miniature painting is a meticulous and deeply intentional process. It begins with careful preparation—selecting the finest materials, from delicate handmade paper to rich pigments and pure gold leaf. The artist sketches the initial design lightly, mindful of the balance between space, color, and form.

For tezhip, the focus lies in the precise application of gold and vibrant ornamental patterns that frame and enhance the calligraphy, requiring patience and a steady hand. Meanwhile, minyatür artists breathe life into narrative scenes with bold colors and stylized figures, composing each image to tell a vivid story.

Throughout the process, every brushstroke and detail reflects a devotion not just to craftsmanship, but to preserving centuries-old traditions that continue to inspire wonder today. Contemporary artists in Turkey and beyond continue to practice and innovate within these traditions—keeping the aesthetics alive while adding modern interpretations.

So the next time you see a glowing gold floral motif or a centuries-old battle scene no larger than your hand, you’ll know: that’s not just art—it’s a legacy.

The Creative Process

-Traditional paper is often handmade or treated with starch to make it smooth and durable.

-Artists may press and polish the surface using agate stones for a refined texture.

- For tezhip, the artist begins with symmetrical patterns—floral arabesques, spirals, or borders around calligraphy.

- For minyatür, a scene is mapped out, often based on historical texts or epic literature. Figures, architecture, and landscapes are lightly drawn with pencil.

- The outlines are traced with very fine brushes (often made from squirrel or cat hair) or reed pens using black or brown ink.

- Precision is key—once inked, the lines define the composition permanently.

- In tezhip, gold is applied before painting. Artists use gold leaf or powdered gold mixed with water and gum arabic.

- Gold is carefully laid into areas, then burnished with an agate stone to create a high-shine finish.

- Artists use natural pigments: lapis lazuli (blue), malachite (green), vermilion (red), and others ground into fine powders.

- These are mixed with water and a binder (like gum arabic) to create paint.

- Colors are applied in thin layers, gradually building richness and depth.

- In tezhip, subtle shading gives dimension to flowers and patterns.- In miniatures, each element—clothing, architecture, landscapes—is filled in with tiny, precise brush strokes.

- No shadows are cast; figures appear “flat,” symbolizing timelessness and divine neutrality.

- After color and gold are complete, final outlines are redrawn with ultra-thin brushes.

- The work may be finished with border frames, marginal decorations, or marbled paper (ebru) covers.