Right part of a double-page frontispiece to a manuscript of religious texts, penned for Süleyman I. c. 1550 

This is the right half of a double-page frontispiece, penned around 1550 by Ahmed Karahisari for Süleyman I. It served as the opening to a manuscript of religious texts. Karahisari, born in 1468, was a master of Islamic calligraphy during the height of the Ottoman Empire. As an artist, he would have navigated the complex social hierarchies of the court. His identity as a skilled artisan was deeply intertwined with the patronage of powerful figures like Süleyman I. Karahisari's work is a testament to his devotion, as the flowing script and geometric precision reflect a desire to honor the divine. The emotional impact of this piece lies in its meditative quality; the intricate patterns draw the eye inward, inviting contemplation. Calligraphy in this period was not just writing but a sacred act, transforming text into art. As you stand here, consider how Karahisari’s dedication shaped not only the aesthetics of his time but also the spiritual experience of those who encountered his work.