Bellini in Istanbul, a Book Review

The event at the center of this refreshingly conceived cycle of poems is Italian painter Gentile Bellini's sojourn in Istanbul in 1479. Poems undulate out from this experience as the poet carves poetic sculptures that explore the themes of art, archaeology, and the idea of cultural transmission. These insightful contemplations are delicately honed by the author's own experience in Turkey, ultimately fashioning a mirror to history that reflects the landscape of self.

Read more on this: Bellini in Istanbul, Barnes & Noble.com

Tughra: The Sultan's Seal

A tughra is a calligraphic seal or signature of an Ottoman sultan that was affixed to all official documents and correspondence. It was also carved on his seal and stamped on the coins minted during his reign.

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Antique fine porcelaine plate with drawing: Acropolis

Antique fine porcelaine plate with drawing: ACROPOLIS, PATENT D W, with motto stamp "DIEU ET MON DROIT, HONI SOIT QUI MAL Y PENSE", by "C.L.A.Q. BRO"

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Is this an ancient Anatolian Celtic crown?

Turkish Zarf & Russian Podstakannik A Turkish zarf is a holder, usually of ornamental metal, for a coffee cup without a handle. Coffee was served in small cups without handles, which were placed in holders known as zarf to protect the cup and also the fingers of the drinker from the hot fluid in Ottoman times. Cups were typically made of porcelain. However since it was the holder that was more visible, it was typically more heavily ornamented. A Russian podstakannik is a tea glass holder, most commonly made of metal with a handle. It is a traditional way of serving and drinking tea in Russia, Ukraine and Belarus.

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Istanbul Backpacker

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